Tomi Poutanen
TL;DR Tomi Poutanen is a visionary computer engineer and entrepreneur whose pioneering work in AI and machine learning has shaped the development of intelligent systems, search technology, and healthcare innovation.
Tomi Poutanen by Sora
Tomi Poutanen is a seasoned computer scientist, entrepreneur, and AI innovator with a deep passion for developing technologies that advance human capability. Known for founding and leading multiple successful companies, Poutanen has played an instrumental role in shaping the modern artificial intelligence landscape, especially in applying predictive and machine learning systems to real-world challenges.
He began his career after studying computer engineering at the University of Toronto, a city that would later become a global hub for AI research, partly due to his influence. Over the years, Poutanen has co-founded four technology companies, each of which has been acquired by major players such as Microsoft, Yahoo!, and TD Bank. His early work contributed to significant advancements in web search algorithms, natural language understanding, and predictive analytics.
One of Poutanen’s most notable ventures was Layer 6 AI, an artificial intelligence enterprise that developed advanced machine learning solutions for financial institutions. Layer 6’s predictive engine gained international recognition after winning the ACM RecSys Challenge twice, setting a new standard in recommendation systems. Following its acquisition by TD Bank, Poutanen continued to focus on leveraging AI in healthcare through his current company, Signal 1, which integrates predictive intelligence into clinical workflows to improve patient outcomes and hospital efficiency.
Beyond entrepreneurship, Poutanen has contributed extensively to the broader AI community. He co-founded the Vector Institute, a world-leading AI research center in Toronto, and is a founding Fellow of the Creative Destruction Lab, an accelerator supporting deep tech and artificial intelligence startups. He also serves as a partner at Radical Ventures, a venture capital firm focused on advancing AI innovation responsibly and sustainably.
Co-founder and CEO of Signal 1, applying AI to healthcare and patient care optimization
Co-founder of Layer 6 AI, winner of the ACM RecSys Challenge (twice), later acquired by TD Bank.
Co-founder of the Vector Institute, advancing global AI research in deep learning
Founding Fellow of the Creative Destruction Lab, the world’s largest AI-focused venture accelerator
Founder and Partner at Radical Ventures, investing in transformative AI companies
Former leader at Yahoo! and Microsoft Bing, where he contributed to developing large-scale search and ranking systems
Recognized thought leader in applied AI, machine learning, and responsible innovation across industries
