New technologies are revolutionising DNA-based diagnostics – increasingly it is possible to conduct tests onsite with the results delivered in real-time. Ampersand Technologies makes use of these technologies to deliver fast, cheap, and accurate testing to our clients with a focus on agricultural, horticultural, and environmental applications. Assays for several diseases affecting our native New Zealand fauna and flora, including kauri dieback and myrtle rust, have been developed with several others under development. Ampersand Technologies officially launched in August 2021. The start-up, which is being led by Dr. Richard Winkworth, received co-investment from Matū, a venture capital fund focused on early-stage science and technology, and Massey Ventures, the company responsible for commercialising innovative research at Massey University.