Australia’s national science agency, CSIRO, has launched a fresh opportunity for Western Australian (WA) small to medium enterprises (SMEs) eager to transform agrifood innovation.
Applications are now open for the Innovate to Grow.
The Agrifood program is designed as a transformative initiative delivered by CSIRO with support from the WA department of primary industries and regional development (DPIRD).
Recognising the pivotal role of agribusinesses in the global agrifood industry, CSIRO is calling on forward-thinking enterprises to join this free 10-week online program.
The program, commencing on 11 April 2024, offers participants collaboration with mentors from CSIRO or universities, addressing technical and business challenges, exploring R&D opportunities, gaining insights into partnering with research organisations, and crafting compelling R&D funding applications.
“Participants will gain insights into the significance of R&D, along with practical strategies to navigate and advance their ideas through the innovation pipeline. It’s a unique blend of education, mentorship, and tangible pathways to turn concepts into successful realities,” said Dr Georgia Feast, CSIRO SME connect deputy director.
Designed for start-ups and SMEs in WA, this program targets the state’s extensive agricultural landscape, spanning 71 million hectares and supporting diverse agricultural production, from broadacre farming to intensive agriculture and aquaculture.
The program is open to a limited number of SMEs working across the following sub-sectors:
- Meat and meat product manufacturing
- Agriculture and fishing support services
- Aquaculture
- Livestock
- Beverage manufacturing
- Food product manufacturing
- Other subsectors considered
Applications close on Sunday 17 March 2024.