The India Australia Rapid Innovation and Startup Expansion (RISE) Accelerator is now accepting applications for its third round, offering targeted support to Australian startups and small-to-medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) with renewable energy technologies seeking to expand into the Indian market.
Spearheaded by CSIRO in collaboration with the Atal Innovation Mission (AIM) under the Government of India’s NITI Aayog, the RISE Accelerator is designed to help businesses fast-track their cross-border impact.
The program specifically targets companies developing high-technology readiness level (TRL) solutions that address pressing challenges in clean and renewable energy manufacturing, storage, and deployment.
Round 3 of the program seeks Australian startups and SMEs with deployable, novel solutions in solar, battery, wind, and hydrogen.
Applications are open to businesses that are headquartered in Australia, registered for GST, and incorporated with an ABN and ACN, or as an incorporated trustee. Eligible companies must have an annual revenue under A$20 million for the past three years and offer technologies aligned with one or more of the program’s challenge statements.
The RISE Accelerator offers successful applicants a suite of support mechanisms, including access to up to $135,000 in non-equity grants, market insights, regulatory guidance, and direct connections to key partners such as funders, suppliers, distributors, regulators, and researchers.
The program also includes a structured four-month Discovery phase followed by a five-month Pilot phase, allowing selected companies to adapt and validate their technologies for the Indian market.
CSIRO, Australia’s national science agency, plays a central role in delivering the program by leveraging its international networks, scientific expertise, and innovation capabilities.
Since its launch, the RISE Accelerator has focused on supporting climate and environment solutions across three themed rounds: waste and circular economy, climate-smart agritech, and now renewable energy.
The program is free to join and involves a combination of virtual learning and in-person engagement, including travel-based experiences known as Immersion Weeks.
Interested companies are encouraged to apply now to take part in a program aimed at accelerating their growth and impact across international borders.
