Western Australian (WA) small to medium enterprises (SMEs) in the agrifood sector are set to receive a significant innovation boost with the launch of a transformative program by Australia’s national science agency CSIRO.
The Innovate to Grow: Agrifood program, delivered in collaboration with the WA Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development (DPIRD), aims to catalyse agrifood innovation among start-ups and SMEs in WA.
Applications for the program are now open, offering a unique opportunity for businesses to revolutionise their approach to research and development (R&D) in the agrifood domain, the agency said in a news release.
Spanning an expansive agricultural landscape of 71 million hectares, Western Australia hosts a diverse array of agricultural activities, ranging from broadacre farming to intensive agriculture and aquaculture.
Recognizing the pivotal role of agribusinesses in the global agrifood industry, CSIRO is inviting forward-thinking enterprises to participate in this free 10-week online program.
Dr George Feast, CSIRO SME Connect deputy director, emphasised the transformative nature of the Innovate to Grow program.
“The program offers a transformative experience that not only fosters innovation but also educates businesses on the invaluable role of R&D in enhancing their overall business strategy,” Dr Feast said.
He continued, “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.”
Commencing on 11 April 2024, the program offers participants access to mentors from CSIRO or universities who will assist in addressing technical and business challenges, exploring R&D opportunities, and providing guidance on partnering with research organisations.
Moreover, participants will receive support in crafting compelling R&D funding applications.
Amanda Falconer, founder of Bestie Kitchen, shared her experience with the program, underscoring its impact on her business.
“Innovate to Grow really made research accessible,” Ms Falconer affirmed.
She continued, “Before the program, I thought there was no way that a tiny company like mine could work with CSIRO or a university. Now it has been demystified.”
Following her participation in the program in June 2020, Bestie Kitchen successfully navigated the CSIRO innovation ecosystem and secured dollar-matched R&D funding through the CSIRO Kick-Start program.
The funding facilitated the development of scientifically-sound pet food and supplements.
The program is open to SMEs operating in various sub-sectors of the agrifood industry, including meat and meat product manufacturing, agriculture and fishing support services, aquaculture, livestock, beverage manufacturing, food product manufacturing, and other related areas.
Applications are set to close on 17 March 2024.
