
Tempus, the medical technology company founded and run by the billionaire behind the digital coupon site Groupon, announced this morning that it is launching a new service that will use artificial intelligence to get more patients into clinical trials for cancer.
Eric Lefkofsky, the founder and chief executive of Tempus, started the company after being shocked at the disorganization of the medical system when his wife developed breast cancer. (He’s said she’s doing well.) His past success and the scale of his vision — combining genomics, AI, and collaboration with top cancer centers — has allowed him to raise a startling amount of money. Last week, Tempus raised $200 million from investors including Baillie Gifford, Franklin Templeton Investments, and New Enterprise Associates, bringing the total amount the company has raised to $520 million and valuing Tempus at $3.1 billion.