Key Takeaways
- CSIRO has opened applications for its Innovate to Grow: Agriculture, Food & Technology – Queensland program targeting regional SMEs.
- The program is part of the Queensland Government-funded Regional University Industry Collaboration (RUIC) initiative.
- It supports small-to-medium enterprises (SMEs) in developing research strategies and connecting with researchers and mentors.
- Sectors covered include agritech, food manufacturing, alternative proteins, aquaculture, logistics, and more.
- Previous participants report benefits in refining R&D problems and initiating collaborations.
CSIRO Opens Applications for R&D Training Program for Queensland Agri-Food SMEs
CSIRO, Australia’s national science agency, has launched the next round of its Innovate to Grow program, inviting Queensland-based SMEs operating in agriculture, food, and related technologies to apply. The initiative is designed to support early-stage research and development (R&D) efforts by helping businesses define research challenges, form collaborations, and access expert guidance.
The program is delivered as part of the Regional University Industry Collaboration (RUIC) program, which is funded by the Queensland Government. Participating businesses receive access to researchers from regional universities, mentorship, and R&D facilitation tailored to their industry needs.
CSIRO Supports Commercialisation Pathways for Regional Innovators
Dr George Feast, Director of CSIRO’s SME Connect Programs, emphasized the role of structured support in helping small businesses move from concept to market.
“We’re helping SMEs with a pathway from concept to commercialisation, with access to world-class researchers at regional Queensland universities, and matched R&D support – as well as support from our specialist team of facilitators,” said Dr Feast.
A recent CSIRO report noted that partnerships with universities and research institutions allow SMEs to accelerate product development and tailor innovation to sector-specific opportunities.
Innovate to Grow Program Focuses on a Range of Sectors
The current program is open to Queensland SMEs involved in:
- Agriculture technology (agritech)
- Food and beverage manufacturing
- Crop innovation
- Livestock and aquaculture
- Alternative proteins
- Packaging, handling and storage
- Transport, logistics and provenance
- Other related technology sectors
CSIRO aims to support businesses working on challenges that could benefit from applied science, university research capabilities, and structured R&D planning.
Previous Participants Cite Value of Program
Queensland SME Erkmark Australia took part in the program in 2025. Founder Lloyd Tailby described the experience as a turning point in developing a clearer innovation pathway: “The program was a big help in guiding me to refine the problem and progress with collaboration,” he said. “This is a valuable program for any small business with good ideas who want to explore R&D opportunities.”
With applications now open, CSIRO encourages eligible businesses to take advantage of the opportunity to grow their innovation capacity through structured research engagement and expert guidance.
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