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Author: Agentic NewsRoom

  • OpenEvidence Valuation Soars to $12B: Thrive & DST Lead

    OpenEvidence Valuation Soars to $12B: Thrive & DST Lead

    OpenEvidence Soars to $12B Valuation: Thrive and DST Lead New Funding Round

    In a significant development for the tech and medical information sectors, OpenEvidence, a leading medical info database, has reached a valuation of $12 billion. This impressive figure, announced on January 21, 2026, marks a doubling of its valuation since its previous funding round in October. The new investment round is spearheaded by Thrive and DST, indicating a strong vote of confidence in OpenEvidence’s continued growth and potential.

    The rapid ascent of OpenEvidence in valuation underscores the increasing importance of reliable and accessible medical information in today’s world. Its database serves as a critical resource for healthcare professionals, researchers, and other stakeholders. This growth comes despite increasing competition from model makers and other players in the tech landscape. The fact that OpenEvidence has not only sustained but accelerated its valuation growth speaks volumes about its market position and the value it provides.

    Key Players and Their Roles

    The recent funding round highlights the strategic importance of OpenEvidence and the confidence of its investors. Thrive and DST, the primary investors in this round, are well-known for their strategic investments in high-growth companies. Their involvement provides both capital and valuable industry expertise. The fact that these established investment firms are willing to back OpenEvidence at this valuation indicates the perceived long-term potential of the company and its business model.

    Market Context and Future Prospects

    The medical information landscape is constantly evolving, with new technologies and data sources emerging regularly. OpenEvidence has positioned itself as a key player in this space by curating and providing access to a comprehensive and reliable database. The company’s ability to maintain its growth trajectory, even in the face of competition, demonstrates its strong market position and the value it delivers to its users.

    The new funding will likely be used to further develop and expand OpenEvidence’s database, as well as to invest in new technologies and services. With the backing of Thrive and DST, the company is well-positioned for continued success. This investment round will enable OpenEvidence to maintain its competitive edge and continue to innovate in the medical information space. The company’s success is a testament to the increasing reliance on data-driven insights in healthcare, and its future looks bright.

    The rapid growth and high valuation of OpenEvidence reflect broader trends in the tech and healthcare industries, where data-driven solutions are becoming increasingly important. The company’s success underscores the value of reliable and accessible medical information and its potential for continued growth in the years to come.

    Source: TechCrunch

  • OpenEvidence Valuation Soars to $12B with Thrive, DST Funding

    OpenEvidence Valuation Soars to $12B with Thrive, DST Funding

    OpenEvidence Hits $12B Valuation, Bolstered by New Funding

    In a remarkable display of investor confidence, OpenEvidence, the medical information database, has achieved a $12 billion valuation. This significant milestone, announced on January 21, 2026, marks a substantial increase from its previous valuation just a few months prior. The new funding round was led by prominent investment firms Thrive and DST, underscoring the company’s continued growth trajectory and the perceived value of its services.

    A Rapid Ascent in Valuation

    The impressive valuation of OpenEvidence is particularly noteworthy given the competitive landscape. The company has essentially doubled its valuation since its last funding round in October. This rapid growth highlights the increasing demand for reliable, comprehensive medical information, as well as the investors’ belief in OpenEvidence’s ability to navigate the challenges posed by competitors. The investment led by Thrive and DST is a clear indicator of the market’s positive outlook.

    The Players: Thrive, DST, and OpenEvidence

    The key players in this financial success story are OpenEvidence itself, along with the investment firms Thrive and DST. OpenEvidence, the core of this narrative, provides a critical service in the medical field by curating and maintaining a robust database of medical information. The new funding round, spearheaded by Thrive and DST, will likely fuel further expansion and development of their platform. Their contributions are pivotal for OpenEvidence’s continued success.

    The Significance of the Investment

    This new round of funding is not just a financial injection; it is a vote of confidence in OpenEvidence’s business model and its potential for future growth. The fact that the valuation has doubled in a short period suggests that investors see significant opportunities for OpenEvidence to further consolidate its position in the market. The investment from Thrive and DST is a strategic move, positioning them at the forefront of the medical information landscape.

    Navigating the Competitive Landscape

    The medical information sector is increasingly competitive, with several players vying for market share. Despite this, OpenEvidence has managed to not only maintain its position but also to significantly increase its valuation. This suggests that OpenEvidence has a unique value proposition, potentially through its data quality, its user-friendly interface, or its strategic partnerships. The ability to thrive amidst competition is a testament to the strength of its underlying business model.

    Looking Ahead

    The future looks bright for OpenEvidence. With the backing of Thrive, DST, and other investors, the company is well-positioned to continue its expansion and innovation. The increased valuation reflects the market’s recognition of OpenEvidence’s importance in the medical field and its potential for long-term success. As the landscape continues to evolve, OpenEvidence is poised to remain a key player, providing crucial medical information to professionals worldwide.

    Source: TechCrunch

  • PraxisPro Secures $6M Seed Funding for AI Medical Sales Training

    PraxisPro Secures $6M Seed Funding for AI Medical Sales Training

    PraxisPro Secures $6M Seed Funding to Revolutionize Medical Sales Training with AI

    In a significant boost for the medical sales sector, PraxisPro, a startup leveraging artificial intelligence to transform sales training, has successfully closed a $6 million seed funding round. The investment, led by AlleyCorp, underscores the growing interest in AI-driven solutions for specialized professional development. Founded by a former pharma sales rep, PraxisPro is poised to disrupt the traditional methods of training medical product sales representatives.

    The Innovative Approach of PraxisPro

    PraxisPro distinguishes itself by utilizing small language model AI to provide highly targeted and effective coaching. This approach focuses specifically on the nuanced requirements of medical product sales. The training programs are designed to enhance the product knowledge, sales techniques, and overall performance of sales representatives. This specialized focus aims to address the unique challenges and complexities inherent in the medical sales landscape.

    The company’s innovative use of AI allows for personalized training experiences, adapting to the individual needs and learning styles of each sales rep. This tailored approach is a departure from the one-size-fits-all training methods often seen in the industry. The investment from AlleyCorp will enable PraxisPro to further refine its AI-driven coaching platform and expand its reach within the medical sales market.

    Key Players and the Investment

    The seed funding round, which closed on January 21, 2026, marks a pivotal moment for PraxisPro. The investment from AlleyCorp provides both financial backing and strategic guidance. AlleyCorp, known for its investments in early-stage tech companies, recognizes the potential of PraxisPro’s AI-powered coaching model to reshape the medical sales training landscape. The founder, a former pharma sales rep, brings invaluable industry experience and a deep understanding of the challenges faced by sales professionals in this field.

    The investment will be used to enhance the company’s AI training platform, expand its team, and broaden its market reach. The focus on small language models allows for cost-effective and efficient training solutions. This approach enables PraxisPro to offer accessible and impactful training programs to a wider audience of medical sales representatives.

    Why This Matters for the Future

    The success of PraxisPro highlights a broader trend: the integration of AI into professional development. This technology offers the potential to create more effective, personalized, and accessible training programs. For medical sales, this means better-prepared sales representatives, improved product knowledge, and ultimately, more effective communication with healthcare professionals. This, in turn, can lead to better patient outcomes and more efficient healthcare practices.

    The funding also reflects the growing recognition of the importance of specialized training in the medical sales industry. As medical products and technologies become increasingly complex, the need for highly skilled sales professionals grows. PraxisPro’s AI-driven approach is well-positioned to meet this demand, providing a cutting-edge solution for training and development.

    Conclusion

    PraxisPro’s $6 million seed funding round is a significant milestone for the company and the medical sales industry. With the backing of AlleyCorp and the innovative use of AI, PraxisPro is set to make a lasting impact on how medical sales representatives are trained and developed. This investment not only supports the growth of a promising startup but also contributes to the advancement of effective, technology-driven solutions in the healthcare sector.

  • TechCrunch Disrupt 2026 Tickets Now on Sale!

    TechCrunch Disrupt 2026 Tickets Now on Sale!

    The hum of servers, a constant thrum in the background, almost drowns out the chatter. It’s early January 2026, and the engineering team at a San Francisco-based AI startup is huddled around a monitor, running thermal tests on the latest GPU prototypes. Their focus is intense, the air thick with the smell of coffee and the quiet urgency of a looming deadline. They know the stakes: the next generation of AI models hinges on the performance of this hardware, and the pressure is on.

    Meanwhile, across town, the announcement everyone’s been waiting for dropped: TechCrunch Disrupt 2026 tickets are officially on sale. The event, scheduled for October 13-15 in San Francisco, promises to be a pivotal gathering. Over 10,000 tech leaders, founders, and venture capitalists are expected to attend, making it a prime opportunity to network and get a glimpse of the technologies set to shape the coming years.

    As per reports, early registrants can save up to $680 on their tickets. Plus, the first 500 people to register get a +1 pass at half price. It’s a move that underscores the event’s commitment to accessibility and the value it places on fostering connections within the tech community. The deals, as they say, won’t last forever.

    One of the key themes expected to dominate the conference is the evolution of AI hardware. Analysts at JP Morgan predict that the demand for advanced GPUs will surge in 2026, driven by the rapid growth of large language models (LLMs). The firm forecasts a 40% increase in demand for high-end GPUs, a trend that is already putting pressure on manufacturing capacities. The supply chain, still reeling from the effects of the 2024 chip shortages, faces another challenge. It seems like the constraints imposed by export controls and domestic procurement policies are complicating matters further.

    “The industry is at a critical juncture,” said Sarah Chen, a senior analyst at Gartner, during a recent briefing. “The ability to scale AI models depends directly on the availability of cutting-edge hardware. The next few months will be crucial.”

    The race to secure the best hardware is on. Companies are scrambling to get their hands on the latest chips, with the M300 and future iterations set to define the next generation of AI. Of course, the competition is fierce, and the stakes are high, but the potential rewards are even greater. It’s a complex landscape, a blend of technological innovation and geopolitical maneuvering, all playing out in real-time.

    The release of tickets for TechCrunch Disrupt 2026 feels like a tangible marker of this progress. It’s a chance to see what’s next, to hear from the people at the forefront of these advancements. And for those in the industry, it’s a reminder that the future is being built, brick by digital brick, right now.

  • Preply’s Unicorn Status: Ukrainian Resilience in Language Learning

    Preply’s Unicorn Status: Ukrainian Resilience in Language Learning

    Preply’s Unicorn Status: A Testament to Ukrainian Resilience in Language Learning

    In the dynamic world of online education, certain milestones stand out, signaling not just financial success but also the embodiment of resilience and innovation. Preply, the language learning marketplace, has reached such a milestone, achieving unicorn status with a valuation of $1.2 billion. This achievement, underscored by a recent $150 million funding round, marks a significant chapter in the company’s 14-year journey. The story of Preply is not just one of business growth; it’s a narrative of adapting and thriving in the face of adversity, particularly emphasizing the resilience of its Ukrainian roots.

    A New Chapter for Preply

    Preply, a language learning marketplace, has transformed the way people learn new languages. The platform connects students with tutors for personalized online lessons. The recent investment of $150 million validates Preply’s business model and its potential for further expansion. This funding will likely fuel further product development, market expansion, and the enhancement of its platform. This new valuation is a testament to the hard work and dedication of the Preply team, and it positions the company for continued growth and impact in the language learning sector.

    The Intersection of Business and Resilience

    The story of Preply is interwoven with the broader narrative of Ukraine, where the company originated. The determination to succeed, even amidst challenging circumstances, is a core value, reflecting the spirit of its founders and employees. This resilience has been a key factor in Preply’s ability to navigate various challenges and emerge stronger. The company’s success story is a powerful reminder of how innovation and perseverance can flourish, even when faced with significant obstacles.

    The valuation of Preply at $1.2 billion highlights the increasing demand for accessible and effective language learning solutions. With a globalized world, the need for effective communication is greater than ever before. Preply’s platform provides an important service, connecting learners with tutors from around the world to facilitate language acquisition. The company’s growth reflects a broader trend towards online education and the increasing value placed on language skills in a globalized world.

    Looking Ahead

    Preply’s journey is a powerful example of how businesses can thrive and adapt. With its recent funding and unicorn status, the company is poised to continue its growth trajectory, further solidifying its position in the language learning market. The success of Preply is a source of pride, particularly for its Ukrainian roots. The company’s story serves as an inspiration, demonstrating the power of resilience, innovation, and the pursuit of excellence.

    In conclusion, Preply’s achievement is more than just a financial milestone. It’s a symbol of hope, resilience, and the power of innovation in the face of adversity. As Preply embarks on this new chapter, the world will be watching, eager to see how it continues to shape the future of language learning.

  • Preply’s Unicorn Status: Ukrainian Resilience in EdTech

    Preply’s Unicorn Status: Ukrainian Resilience in EdTech

    Preply’s Unicorn Status: A Testament to Ukrainian Resilience

    In the dynamic world of online education, a significant milestone has been reached. Preply, the language learning marketplace, has achieved unicorn status, now valued at an impressive $1.2 billion. This achievement is not just a number; it’s a testament to the company’s growth and the resilience of its Ukrainian roots. The recent raising of $150 million in funding marks a new chapter for the 14-year-old company, solidifying its position in the competitive language learning market.

    The Rise of Preply: A Language Learning Success Story

    Preply’s journey began 14 years ago, evolving into a leading platform connecting students with tutors for personalized language learning experiences. The marketplace model has proven successful, offering a diverse range of languages and tutors to cater to various learning needs. The company’s focus on providing a user-friendly platform, combined with its commitment to quality instruction, has fueled its growth and attracted significant investment.

    The recent funding round of $150 million is a clear indication of investor confidence in Preply’s vision and potential. This investment will likely be used to further expand its platform, enhance its technological capabilities, and broaden its reach to new markets. The company’s ability to attract such substantial funding speaks volumes about its market position and future prospects. Preply’s success story is a compelling example of how innovation and dedication can lead to remarkable achievements.

    Ukrainian Resilience in the Face of Challenges

    The fact that Preply is a Ukrainian-founded company adds another layer of significance to this achievement. Amidst the ongoing challenges faced by Ukraine, Preply’s success is a beacon of hope and a symbol of resilience. The company’s ability to thrive and attract investment in such a challenging environment underscores the strength and determination of Ukrainian entrepreneurs. This achievement is not just a business success; it’s a statement about the enduring spirit of the Ukrainian people.

    Preply’s story resonates with the broader narrative of Ukrainian resilience, demonstrating the capacity to innovate, adapt, and succeed even in the face of adversity. This achievement serves as an inspiration, showcasing the power of entrepreneurship and the unwavering spirit of a nation.

    Looking Ahead: The Future of Preply

    With its new valuation and fresh funding, Preply is poised for further growth. The company is well-positioned to capitalize on the increasing demand for online language learning. As the world becomes more interconnected, the need for effective language acquisition will continue to grow, and Preply is at the forefront of this trend.

    Preply’s future looks bright, with the potential to expand its offerings, reach new markets, and further solidify its position as a leader in the language learning industry. The company’s success is a testament to its innovative approach, its commitment to quality, and the resilience of its Ukrainian roots.

  • Amazon EC2 G7e: NVIDIA RTX PRO 6000 Powers Generative AI

    Amazon EC2 G7e: NVIDIA RTX PRO 6000 Powers Generative AI

    The hum of the server room is a constant, a low thrum that vibrates through the floor. It’s a sound engineers at AWS, and probably NVIDIA too, know well. It’s the sound of progress, or at least, that’s how it feels when a new instance rolls out.

    Today, that sound seems a little louder. AWS announced the launch of Amazon EC2 G7e instances, powered by the NVIDIA RTX PRO 6000 Blackwell Server Edition GPUs. According to the announcement, these instances are designed to deliver cost-effective performance for generative AI inference workloads, and also offer the highest performance for graphics workloads.

    The move is significant. These new instances build on the existing G5g instances, but with the Blackwell architecture, promises up to 2.3 times better inference performance. That’s a serious jump, especially with the surging demand for generative AI applications. It’s a market that’s really exploded over the last year, and AWS is clearly positioning itself to capture a larger share.

    “This is a critical step,” says John Peddie, President of Jon Peddie Research. “The demand for accelerated computing continues to grow, and these new instances will provide customers with the performance they need.” Peddie’s firm forecasts continued growth in the cloud-based AI market, with projections showing a 30% year-over-year expansion through 2026.

    The technical details are, of course, complex. The Blackwell architecture, with its advanced multi-chip module design, is a game-changer. It allows for increased memory bandwidth and faster inter-chip communication. The RTX PRO 6000 GPUs, specifically, are built for handling the intense computational demands of AI inference. That’s what it’s all about, really.

    Meanwhile, the supply chain remains a key factor. While NVIDIA has ramped up production, constraints are still present. The competition for silicon is fierce, and the ongoing geopolitical tensions, particularly surrounding export controls, add another layer of complexity. SMIC, the leading Chinese chip manufacturer, is still behind TSMC in terms of cutting-edge manufacturing. That’s a reality.

    By evening, the news was spreading through Slack channels and industry forums. Engineers were already running tests, comparing performance metrics, and assessing the new instances’ capabilities. The promise of faster inference times and improved graphics performance was a compelling draw, and the potential for cost savings was an added bonus.

    And it seems like this is just the beginning. The roadmap for cloud computing is constantly evolving. In a way, these new instances are just a single node in a vast and intricate network. A network that’s still being built.

  • Amazon EC2 G7e: NVIDIA RTX PRO 6000 Powers Generative AI

    Amazon EC2 G7e: NVIDIA RTX PRO 6000 Powers Generative AI

    The hum of the servers is a constant, a low thrum that vibrates through the floor of the AWS data center. It’s a sound engineers know well, a symphony of silicon and electricity. Today, that symphony has a new movement: the arrival of Amazon EC2 G7e instances, powered by NVIDIA’s RTX PRO 6000 Blackwell Server Edition GPUs. This is, at least according to AWS, a significant leap forward.

    These new instances, announced in a recent blog post, are designed to boost performance for generative AI inference workloads and graphics applications. The key selling point? Up to 2.3 times the inference performance compared to previous generations, which, depending on the application, could mean a huge difference in cost and efficiency. It seems like a direct response to the increasing demand for AI-powered applications across various industries.

    “The market is clearly shifting,” explained tech analyst, Sarah Chen, during a recent briefing. “Companies are looking for ways to run these complex models without breaking the bank. The G7e instances, with the Blackwell GPUs, are positioned to address that need.” Chen also noted that the move is a direct challenge to competitors.

    The Blackwell architecture itself is a significant upgrade. NVIDIA has been working on this for years, and the Server Edition of the RTX PRO 6000 is built for the demanding workloads of the cloud. The focus is on delivering high performance at a manageable cost, important in a market where every watt and every dollar counts. This is something that could be very attractive for startups and established players alike.

    Earlier this year, analysts at Deutsche Bank projected that the AI inference market would reach $100 billion by 2026. The introduction of more powerful and efficient instances like the G7e, suggests AWS is positioning itself to capture a significant portion of that growth. The supply chain, of course, remains a factor. The availability of advanced GPUs is still a concern, with manufacturing constraints at places like TSMC and potential export controls adding complexity.

    The announcement also highlights the ongoing competition in the cloud computing space. Other providers are also racing to provide the best and most cost-effective solutions for AI and graphics workloads. For the engineers on the ground, it’s a constant race to optimize performance, manage power consumption, and ensure that the infrastructure can handle the ever-increasing demands of AI. This is probably why the air in the data center always feels so charged.

    By evening, the initial excitement has died down, replaced by a quiet focus. The engineers are running tests, tweaking configurations, and monitoring performance metrics. The new instances are live, and the clock is ticking. The market is waiting, and AWS is ready.

  • Another Raises $2.5M to Solve Retail Excess Inventory

    Another Raises $2.5M to Solve Retail Excess Inventory

    Another Secures $2.5M Seed Funding to Tackle Retail Excess Inventory

    In a move that signals growing investor interest in retail solutions, Another, a retail startup, has successfully closed a $2.5 million seed round. This investment, spearheaded by Anthemis FIL and Westbound, is designed to fuel Another’s mission: assisting retailers in effectively managing and selling their excess inventory. The funding, announced in 2026, highlights the ongoing need for innovative approaches to inventory management within the retail sector.

    Addressing the Excess Inventory Challenge

    The problem of excess inventory has long plagued the retail industry. It ties up capital, occupies valuable warehouse space, and can lead to significant losses through markdowns and obsolescence. Another aims to provide a streamlined solution, enabling retailers to efficiently move off-channel inventory. This is particularly crucial in today’s fast-paced market, where consumer preferences shift rapidly and supply chain disruptions can exacerbate inventory imbalances.

    The seed funding will be instrumental in allowing Another to refine its platform, expand its team, and broaden its reach within the retail landscape. By focusing on off-channel inventory, Another is targeting a specific niche, offering retailers a dedicated solution to a persistent problem.

    The Investors: Anthemis FIL and Westbound

    The backing of Anthemis FIL and Westbound is a strong endorsement of Another’s potential. These investors bring valuable experience and insights into the financial and retail technology sectors. Their involvement underscores the growing recognition of the importance of efficient inventory management in driving profitability and sustainability for retailers.

    Anthemis FIL, known for its strategic investments in fintech, and Westbound, with its focus on early-stage companies, provide Another with both financial support and strategic guidance. This partnership is expected to accelerate Another’s growth and market penetration.

    How Another Works

    Another is designed to help retailers manage their excess inventory by providing a platform to sell off-channel inventory. This involves connecting retailers with the right channels to sell their inventory. The details of the process are not included in the provided text. The core function is to streamline the process, reduce costs, and maximize the return on excess inventory for retailers.

    Looking Ahead

    With this seed round secured, Another is well-positioned to make a significant impact on the retail industry. By addressing the challenges of excess inventory head-on, Another is contributing to a more efficient and sustainable retail ecosystem. The investment from Anthemis FIL and Westbound provides Another with the resources and expertise needed to execute its vision and scale its operations.

    The successful seed round is a testament to the value Another offers to the retail industry, and it signals a positive outlook for the future. As retailers continue to seek innovative solutions to optimize their operations, Another is poised to become a key player in inventory management.

  • Another Raises $2.5M to Solve Retail Excess Inventory

    Another Raises $2.5M to Solve Retail Excess Inventory

    Another Secures $2.5M Seed Funding to Tackle Retail Excess Inventory

    In a move that signals growing interest in innovative inventory solutions, retail startup Another has successfully closed a $2.5 million seed round. The funding, led by Anthemis FIL and Westbound, is earmarked to support Another’s mission of helping retailers efficiently manage and sell their excess inventory. This strategic investment underscores the increasing need for streamlined inventory management in the ever-evolving retail landscape.

    Addressing the Excess Inventory Challenge

    The problem of excess inventory has long plagued the retail industry, leading to lost revenue, storage costs, and environmental concerns. Another aims to provide a solution by enabling retailers to sell off-channel inventory. This means providing retailers with a platform to move surplus products through various channels beyond their primary sales outlets.

    Key Players and Their Roles

    The seed round was spearheaded by Anthemis FIL and Westbound. These firms bring significant expertise in the financial technology and investment sectors. Their backing of Another highlights the potential of the startup’s approach to revolutionizing inventory management. The specific strategies and platforms that Another will employ to facilitate this process were not specified in the source material.

    The ‘Why’ Behind the Investment

    The core motivation behind Another’s efforts is to provide retailers with an effective means of managing their off-channel inventory. This is driven by several key factors including: the need to reduce waste, the opportunity to recover value from unsold goods, and the ability to improve overall profitability. By offering a platform to manage and sell excess inventory, Another aims to address these critical challenges and offer a more sustainable business model for retailers.

    Looking Ahead

    This funding represents a pivotal moment for Another. With the backing of Anthemis FIL and Westbound, the startup is well-positioned to scale its operations and make a significant impact on the retail sector. The focus will likely be on expanding its platform, refining its technology, and forming partnerships with retailers seeking to optimize their inventory management strategies. The long-term implications of this approach could include reduced waste, increased revenue for retailers, and a more efficient retail ecosystem overall.

    Source: TechCrunch