The CSIRO and the Queensland Government have launched a free training program aimed at supporting small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), including those in manufacturing, to develop research and development (R&D) capabilities and pursue innovation opportunities.
In a news release, CSIRO said the eight-week Innovate to Grow: Circular Economy and Sustainability program is delivered under the Queensland Government-funded Regional University Industry Collaboration initiative and is designed to guide businesses through developing and implementing R&D strategies with support from researchers and industry mentors.
CSIRO SME Connect Director George Feast said increasing interest in circular economy practices was opening new avenues for innovation across sectors, including manufacturing.
“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,” Dr Feast 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 Kerrie Wilson said the program aligns with the state’s broader efforts to connect businesses with research institutions and support commercialisation.
“Queensland businesses across the state are generating ideas grounded in science and emerging research to address important and complex sustainability issues,” Professor 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.”
According to CSIRO, more than one-third of the 800 participants in previous Innovate to Grow programs have come from regional Australia, indicating strong uptake beyond metropolitan areas.
Eco Barge Clean Seas Inc. participant Leanne Edge said the program had helped the organisation refine its innovation approach.
“Participating in CSIRO’s program has been transformative for us,” Ms Edge said. “The guidance from our mentor helped us navigate complex hurdles and gave us the tools and mindset to innovate with purpose and impact.”
The program is open to Queensland SMEs working across a range of sectors, including manufacturing, transport, energy, construction materials, agriculture, mining, and digital technologies such as robotics and artificial intelligence, with a focus on circular economy and sustainability outcomes.
Applications are open until 26 April 2026.
