Complement 1 has raised $16 million in seed funding to expand its personalized lifestyle coaching platform for cancer care. Led by Owl Ventures and Blume Ventures, the round helps the company bring its clinically validated solution to more patients across the U.S.
The platform, now emerging from stealth, offers daily one-on-one coaching to support behavior change in cancer patients and those at high risk. Using a blend of physical activity, nutrition, and mind-body guidance, each plan is tailored to the patient’s cancer type, treatment stage, and personal needs.
Built on years of research, the platform is among the first to combine digital tools with live coaching based on cancer-specific evidence. Early results are promising. Users report 37% fewer treatment side effects, 18% less pain, and 27% better sleep. Even more impressive, over 90% of users stick to the program.
A Smarter, Human-Centered Approach to Cancer Support
Nearly half of Americans will face cancer in their lifetime. While doctors have long recommended diet, exercise, and stress reduction, most patients struggle to make those changes. Complement 1’s model fixes that with consistent daily engagement and personalized support.
Each patient is paired with a dedicated CoActive Coach who checks in every day. These coaches offer small, manageable steps that align with the patient’s care plan and lifestyle. The system also uses AI to adapt over time, making the experience both personal and scalable.
CEO and co-founder Karan Bajaj says this mix of human empathy and smart automation is what drives real change. “Every oncologist knows lifestyle change works. But patients need real help making it happen. That’s what we do—every day.”
The program’s rule engine uses trusted guidelines, including those from the American Institute for Cancer Research, to build a custom care path for each user. These paths adjust in real time based on side effects, fatigue, or other variables.
Dr. Neil Iyengar, a researcher in exercise oncology and board member at Complement 1, says the platform addresses a long-standing challenge. “Lifestyle can transform outcomes. But getting patients to follow through is hard. This platform finally makes it doable.”
From Health Gains to Cost Savings
Complement 1 is solving more than just a medical problem. It’s also reducing costs. Actuarial models show the platform can lower healthcare expenses for cancer patients by up to 30%. That’s because healthier patients need fewer interventions and recover more quickly.
Unlike other models that rely on weekly check-ins, Complement 1 meets users daily. That frequent contact builds trust and keeps patients on track.
COO and co-founder Trupti Mukker says the funding will help expand their coaching team and enhance their AI engine. The goal is to bring the same level of support to thousands more patients, without losing the personal touch.
“This is where tech meets compassion,” Mukker said. “We’re building high-tech systems, but always keeping humans at the center. That’s how we handle the complexity of cancer.”
Investors are backing that vision. “Complement 1 is reshaping cancer care,” said Amit Patel, Managing Director at Owl Ventures. “The team combines smart tech with daily, human support. It’s exactly what the healthcare system needs.”
With this new capital, Complement 1 plans to scale its platform across cancer centers, health plans, and employer programs. It will also invest in user experience design, making it easier for patients and coaches to connect each day.
