Big win for at-home STI testing: Testmate Health lands USD 6 million to fight the spread
Lausanne-based startup Testmate Health secured a USD 6 million funding boost, representing a key accomplishment in their mission to combat the rising rates of sexually transmitted infections (STIs). With their innovative at-home rapid testing solution, the startup aims to revolutionize STI detection and prevention, offering individuals accessible and timely screening options right from their homes.
The World Health Organization estimates around 374 million new cases of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) annually, including chlamydia, gonorrhoea, syphilis, and trichomoniasis. These infections often go unnoticed, fueling their rapid spread due to stigma and costly traditional tests deterring individuals from seeking examination. Left untreated, STIs can lead to severe health issues like neurological and cardiovascular diseases, pelvic inflammatory disease, and increased HIV risk.Testmate Health, based at Biopôle, has developed an affordable, over-the-counter urine test for STIs, initially targeting chlamydia and gonorrhoea, major causes of infertility worldwide. Users collect a sample at home, receiving results within 30 minutes, eliminating the need for medical visits and ensuring privacy. Positive results prompt direct connection to healthcare professionals for consultation and prescription, offering a seamless experience from testing to treatment.
Funding led by RH Capital, along with Zürcher Kantonalbank, The Helm, Amboy Street Ventures, Lichtsteiner Foundation, DART Ventures, and Gaingels, will accelerate Testmate's product development, testing, and market validation. This represents a significant step in combating the silent epidemic, empowering people to manage their sexual health conveniently and confidently.
Testmate Health participated in Venture Leaders Medtech in 2023 and won the second stage of Venture Kick in 2020.
"Venture Leaders in Boston was a memorable experience. We came back to Switzerland not only with valuable knowledge and connections for our startups but also the priceless camaraderie we'd built among ourselves," highlighted Siew-Veena Sahi, CEO and Co-Founder of Testmate Health and Team Captain of Venture Leaders Medtech 2023.
Testmate Health's team
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