Lincoln Startup DARO Secures Funding for Virus Detection
The company uses specialized shoe covers to detect PRRSV nearly four days earlier than standard testing methods.
Updated on Oct. 28, 2026 in Startups
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Do you trust new surveillance technologies to improve livestock health management in the U.S. swine industry?
Lincoln-based startup DARO secured $2.5 million in funding in September 2026 to expand its laboratory capacity and virus surveillance platform. The firm specializes in an environmental monitoring method that detects PRRSV an average of 3.91 days earlier than traditional oral-fluid testing.
Why it matters
Earlier detection of the PRRSV pathogen allows pork producers to implement biosecurity protocols and manage animal movements before the virus spreads. This improved response capability aims to reduce industry-wide losses caused by common swine health challenges.
DARO reported that its environmental surveillance method identified PRRSV in all 11 nursery rooms studied. The company successfully raised a $2.5 million funding round to support its growth.
The players
DARO
This Lincoln-based startup develops environmental surveillance technology for the swine industry.
The Combine
This incubator organization provided support and resources to help DARO scale its business operations.
The details
Barn employees collect biological samples by walking through pens while wearing specialized shoe covers. These samples are then processed at the company's laboratory in Lincoln, Nebraska, using molecular testing to identify pathogens.
Timeline
The Lincoln laboratory was established in early 2024.
DARO announced a $2.5 million funding round in September 2026.
Market Landscape
DARO's method marks a departure from the historical reliance on oral-fluid diagnostic testing in the U.S. swine industry by providing faster results. This shift challenges established diagnostic standards and positions the startup to capture market share among producers seeking faster biosecurity insights.
Pork producers and stakeholders may benefit from faster health monitoring, potentially reducing overall veterinary costs and herd losses. Improved surveillance could lead to more stable supply chain pricing and consistent availability of pork products for the average consumer.
The takeaway
Producers should evaluate whether environmental surveillance can integrate into their existing health management programs. Adopting earlier detection methods can provide a critical window for intervention during disease outbreaks.
Further reading
For more information on the local business ecosystem, read our coverage on Startups.
Live Poll
Do you trust new surveillance technologies to improve livestock health management in the U.S. swine industry?
