Testmate Health, a trailblazer in at-home testing solutions, has raised USD $6 million in seed funding to introduce the world’s first low-cost, over-the-counter (OTC) self-test for sexually transmitted infections (STIs), starting with chlamydia and gonorrhea.
The current testing process for these prevalent infections in the United States typically involves in-clinic visits and days of waiting for results. Testmate Health aims to revolutionize this approach with a simple urine test designed to deliver lab-quality results in the comfort of one’s home in under 30 minutes.
Dr. Siew-Veena Sahi, Founder and CEO of Testmate Health, brings expertise in sexual health diagnostics, with her research at the World Health Organization highlighting the need for affordable and accurate STI tests. Leveraging revolutionary urine-based DNA platform detection technology, Testmate aims to empower individuals to take charge of their sexual health with accessible, precise, and convenient self-testing solutions.
The seed funding round, led by RH Capital and supported by The Helm, Zürcher Kantonal Bank, Amboy Street Ventures, Lichtsteiner Foundation, and Dartlabs.io, will accelerate Testmate’s product development and market validation efforts. Dr. Sahi emphasizes the company’s commitment to combating the silent epidemic of STIs, particularly chlamydia and gonorrhea, through innovative and affordable testing solutions.
Elizabeth Bailey, lead investor from RH Capital, recognizes the critical healthcare need addressed by Testmate’s approach to at-home STI testing, emphasizing the importance of improving access to essential diagnostics while maintaining the highest standards of accuracy and privacy.
