**Karan Bajaj Launches Healthtech Startup to Transform Cancer Care**
Karan Bajaj, the founder and former CEO of WhiteHat Jr, has embarked on a new venture aimed at revolutionizing cancer care. Four years after selling WhiteHat Jr to Byju’s for $300 million, Bajaj has successfully secured $16 million in seed funding for his latest healthtech startup, Complement 1. This funding round was led by Blume Ventures and Owl Ventures, with contributions from various angel investors.
Complement 1 is designed to fill a critical gap in cancer care by assisting patients in adopting clinically recommended lifestyle changes. Bajaj emphasizes the need for enhanced support in areas such as physical activity, nutrition, and mind-body practices, stating, “Every oncologist will tell you patients need more support incorporating physical activity, nutrition, and mind-body practices.” As the CEO and co-founder, he aims to foster daily engagement through personalized coaching, which is essential for achieving lasting improvements during and after treatment.
With the new funding, Complement 1 plans to broaden its coaching services across the U.S., enhance its AI capabilities, and establish partnerships with cancer centers, healthcare insurance providers, and employers. The startup, founded in January 2024, offers a tailored lifestyle modification platform for cancer patients, high-risk individuals, and survivors. Its program includes personalized physical activity, nutrition, and somatic practices based on the type and stage of cancer, delivered through one-on-one “CoActive” coaching. The integration of AI aims to enhance personalization and ensure long-term adherence to the program.
This marks Bajaj’s first entrepreneurial endeavor since his exit from WhiteHat Jr, which he left at a time when the edtech sector was experiencing significant growth and investor interest. Byju’s acquisition of WhiteHat Jr was part of a broader strategy to accelerate growth, but the company has faced challenges following a decline in demand post-pandemic. WhiteHat Jr was one of the first acquisitions to encounter difficulties, and Byju’s has since been embroiled in disputes with its investors, particularly after filing for bankruptcy last year.
After selling WhiteHat Jr, Bajaj took a sabbatical, during which he traveled to Costa Rica and authored “The Freedom Manifesto,” published by HarperCollins India. He reflected on the time spent with his daughters, reconnecting after years of intense focus on his startup.
As Complement 1 moves forward, it aims to make a significant impact on cancer care, providing essential support to patients and enhancing their quality of life through personalized lifestyle changes.
**FAQ**
**What is Complement 1?**
Complement 1 is a healthtech startup founded by Karan Bajaj that focuses on helping cancer patients adopt clinically recommended lifestyle changes through personalized coaching and AI-driven support.
