Australia’s national science agency, CSIRO, is urging Queensland-based small to medium-sized enterprises in agriculture, food and related technologies to apply for the next round of its Innovate to Grow program, delivered under the Queensland Government-funded Regional University Industry Collaboration (RUIC) initiative.
Positioned as an R&D training programme, Innovate to Grow helps businesses shape and execute research strategies with guidance from experienced researchers and industry mentors. It is designed to take ideas through to commercialisation, connecting participants with expertise and networks across regional Queensland universities.
“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,” Dr Feast said.
CSIRO says a recent report found that working with universities and research institutions can help SMEs develop new products and services, bring them to market faster and address sector-specific challenges.
Lloyd Tailby from Erkmark Australia, who completed CSIRO’s Innovate to Grow in 2025, said the experience provided practical structure and momentum. “The program was a big help in guiding me to refine the problem and progress with collaboration,” Mr Tailby said. “This is a valuable program for any small business with good ideas who want to explore R&D opportunities.”
The Queensland-focused intake is open to SMEs developing or supplying solutions in agritech, food and beverage manufacturing, crop innovation, livestock and aquaculture, alternative proteins, packaging, handling and storage, transport, logistics and provenance, and related areas.
