Abstract: Embodiments of various aspects described herein are directed to methods, compositions, kits for detecting a target molecule in a sample. In particular, there is described herein a multivalent approach which provides an efficient method for detection of small molecules and screening of binding molecules (e.g., antibodies). The multivalent approach uses two or more small molecules in a domain that is attached to a substrate through a linking group. The multivalent domain is free to extend, e.g., into a solution, for presentation to a binding compound such as an antibody.