Nanoscale culturing of microbial cells is still largely underdeveloped, particularly in the diagnostics and drug discovery fields. A new study now reports the development of a microarray platform for the growth of 1,200 individual 30 nl Candida albicans biofilms in a chemically inert alginate matrix. These 'nano-biofilms' had morphological, architectural and growth characteristics that were similar to conventional macroscopic C. albicans biofilms. The tool was used for antifungal drug screening and allowed the rapid identification of three novel antifungal drug candidates. The platform is easily adaptable for the culture of other microorganisms and has the advantages of cutting down on time, cost and reagent use.