Queensland and CSIRO launch free program to help SMEs innovate

CSIRO is inviting Queensland SMEs developing sustainable solutions to apply for Innovate to Grow: Circular Economy and Sustainability, a free eight-week research and development (R&D) training program.

Delivered as part of the Queensland Government-funded Regional University Industry Collaboration (RUIC) program, Innovate to Grow guides businesses through developing and implementing R&D strategies, and provides support from experienced researchers and industry mentors.

Dr George Feast, Director – CSIRO SME Connect, said growing interest in circular economy approaches was creating new opportunities for Queensland businesses to innovate.

“Businesses across Queensland are exploring how to reduce waste, extend the life of materials and build more sustainable operations — and many of them have great ideas with commercial potential,” he said.

“The challenge is often knowing how to take that next step. CSIRO’s Innovate to Grow program gives SMEs the structured support and connections to turn those ideas into a clear R&D plan, backed by the expertise to act on it.”

Queensland Chief Scientist Professor Kerrie Wilson said the program reflected the Queensland Government’s commitment to support local businesses to partner with regional universities to commercialise research.

“Queensland businesses across the state are generating ideas grounded in science and emerging research to address important and complex sustainability issues,” Wilson said. “Programs such as CSIRO’s Innovate to Grow provide SMEs with research expertise, technical knowledge and collaborative networks to turn ideas into practical and impactful outcomes.”

More than one-third of the 800 participants from CSIRO’s Innovate to Grow program have been from regional Australia, demonstrating strong engagement from businesses outside major metropolitan areas.

CSIRO’s Innovate to Grow: Circular Economy and Sustainability is open to Queensland SMEs developing or supplying solutions in:

• Manufacturing
• Transport
• Energy, solar, wind turbines, batteries
• Construction materials
• Agriculture, food and beverage
• Reducing plastic waste
• Mining and METS
• Digital, robotics and AI.
   

Applications are now open and close on 26 April 2026. To learn more and apply, click here.

Image credit: CSIRO