CTV Advertising: How to Put Your Business on the Big Screen (Literally)

Have you ever been watching Hulu, Peacock, or YouTube TV and suddenly seen a commercial for a local business you recognize? You probably wondered how they pulled that off — after all, streaming TV ads used to be something only the “big guys” could afford.

Not anymore. Connected TV (CTV) advertising has changed the game. Now restaurants, attractions, hotels, and event venues in Chicago can run highly targeted commercials that reach exactly who they want — whether that’s a visitor staying in a Loop hotel this weekend or a local likely to book a private event.

The magic is in the targeting. Instead of broadcasting to everyone (including people who’ll never step foot in your business), CTV can pinpoint visitors who are physically in Chicago right now. It can trigger ads after they arrive at O’Hare or Midway, reach them while they’re checking into a hotel, or even show up when they’re attending a major convention, festival, or attraction. With the average trip lasting just 3–4 days, that timing is key.

It works for locals, too. You can reach specific households based on income, interests, or lifestyle, or even upload your own customer database to get back in front of past guests. Campaigns can be timed around big city events, sports seasons, or other moments when your ideal customer is most likely to book.

And here’s the part most people don’t expect: it’s affordable. Campaigns can start at just a few thousand dollars, every impression is tracked and targeted, and you can measure results to see how people engaged with your ad.

CTV puts your business on the biggest screens in the most targeted way possible — whether you want more tourists in your door this weekend or more locals filling your weekday tables. Contact your Ateema Sales Executive or Sales@Ateema.com to learn how CTV can help your business grow.