Success Stories

Since our founding in 2007, we have engaged with numerous companies and developers.

Return on Investment

We have funded more than 20 companies to help develop emerging and promising technology. These companies have gone on to raise more than $300 million in outside capital. Our reputation amongst developers and companies has allowed us to cultivate long term collaborations with both academic and private institutions.
 
Our long history specializing in sexually transmitted infections has made us one of the foremost authorities in STI diagnostic tests. We have published evaluation tests for many STI assays on the market today. We have collaborated with almost all companies who have FDA-approved point-of-care (POC) tests for chlamydia and gonorrhea. Our panel of experts have an extensive understanding of the diagnostic field and provide insights to developers.

Over 350 million raised 

by companies awarded by JHU POCTR for STDs

I Want The Kit (IWTK)

I Want the Kit (IWTK) was initiated in 2004 as an STI home specimen collection outreach program. The program originally targeted Maryland women who wished to be tested for chlamydia. Since 2004 IWTK has expanded to offer chlamydia, gonorrhea, trichomonas, and HIV testing to all genders in 7 states. IWTK clients utilize an online portal to order kits. They collect samples in the privacy of their own homes and return them to the laboratory for testing. The service is free, accurate, and confidential!

In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, the National Institutes of Health (NIH) launched the Rapid Acceleration of Diagnostics initiative to speed along the development, commercialization, and implementation of technologies for COVID-19 testing. The RADx Tech program utilized the already existing POCTRN network to fund and enhance technology at key stages of development. Our Center convened 75 meetings with innovators, clinicians and experts to provide expertise to developers and companies.