Queensland Government and CSIRO launch free R&D program for SMEs
The Queensland Government and CSIRO have launched a free program to help SMEs advance AI and digital tech ideas.
The free eight-week online Innovate to Grow program, delivered by CSIRO, helps businesses turn early-stage ideas into actionable R&D plans while building connections with expert facilitators and researchers.
Offered through the Queensland Government-funded Regional University Industry Collaboration (RUIC) program, Innovate to Grow connects businesses with experienced researchers and industry mentors at the state’s regional universities.
Dr George Feast, CSIRO’s Executive Manager for Industry-Research Collaboration, said the program helps SMEs make confident, informed decisions about their research.
“Many businesses want to invest in R&D but aren’t sure where to start, or whether an idea is worth pursuing,” he said. “Innovate to Grow works through that with them — helping SMEs test their thinking, connect with researchers and mentors, and decide how to move forward.”
Queensland Chief Scientist Professor Kerrie Wilson said Queensland’s digital technology and AI sector offered strong potential to lift productivity across the state’s economy.
“Queensland businesses are developing digital and AI solutions that can make a real difference across industries, from agriculture to manufacturing,” she said. “Connecting these businesses with research expertise through Innovate to Grow helps turn that potential into practical technology that benefits Queensland.”
CSIRO’s ‘Innovate to Grow: DigiTech and AI’ is open to Queensland SMEs developing or supplying solutions in the following subsectors:
- Artificial intelligence, including computer vision, machine learning, GPTs, LLMs, natural language processing etc.
- Digital manufacturing
- Quantum manufacturing and computing
- Cybersecurity
- Robotics and autonomous systems
Applications are now open and close on 20 September 2026. The program will commence in October.
Interested companies can learn more and apply here.
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