Innovate to Grow: Agriculture, Food and Technology

Applications are open for a free 8-week R&D training program for small to medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) working on innovative solutions in agriculture, food and related technologies. 
The program is funded by the Queensland Government and delivered by CSIRO.

Build your R&D idea
SMEs play a key role in growing Australia's innovation capability, but having the right support is critical to success.
Our free online 8-week program will help build your skills and networks so you can learn how to advance your idea with R&D.

Apply today
Applications close: 17 August 2025
Program starts: 11 September 2025
www.csiro.au/agrifoodQLD


Key program outcomes
Personalised support to refine your idea: We'll step you through the process of turning your idea into a viable research project.
Confidential feedback: All submissions through the program portal will receive prompt expert feedback.
Coaching: You will be paired with a R&D coach from CSIRO or a university to help connect you with a relevant specialist.
Build your network: You will build key contacts in your sector, including researchers and other SMEs.

Key program outputs include how to:
Create a strong research question for your idea 
Assess the value of your innovation
Work out your collaboration options 
Compose a high impact R&D business case 
Prepare a funding application

Commitment and course outline
Preparing for the program (3–4 hours) 
Onboarding session, pre-workshop videos and reading materials.

Week 1 (Starts on 11 September 2025)
Workshop (4 hours) 
Guest speakers from CSIRO, sector experts and SMEs 
who will provide tips and information on topics such 
as trends and opportunities, innovation experience 
and funding. You will also meet your fellow participants 
and R&D coach. 

Weeks 2–8 
Self-paced innovation program (2–3 hours per week) 
Participants explore opportunities to grow their 
business through innovation and research.
 
Fortnightly virtual webinars for participant networking 
and guest speakers. 


Who can attend
Participants based and operating in Queensland Australia who are working on agriculture, food and related technologies. This can be in any sub-sector including: 
Agriculture technology (agritech)
Food and beverage manufacturing
Crop innovation
Livestock and aquaculture
Alternative proteins
Packaging, handling and storage
Transport, logistics and provenance
Other

Selection criteria (essential): 
A business based and operating in Queensland  Australia that is registered with an ABN 
A business classified as small to medium (<200 employees)
An R&D idea to work on throughout the program related to agriculture.


Previous participant
'The program was a big help in guiding me to refine the problem and progress with collaboration. This is a valuable program for any small business with good ideas who want to explore R&D opportunities.'
Lloyd Tailby,Erkmar Australia


Please note:  Australian subsidiary companies of foreign entities are not eligible. 

Other considerations: 
A strong alignment to the program objectives
A clear desire to investigate a R&D project



CSIRO Innovate to Grow is delivered using Practera's online ed-tech platform and facilitation services.

For further information: InnovatetoGrow@csiro.au www.csiro.au/agrifoodQLD


The Regional University Industry (RUIC) Program is funded by the Queensland Government and delivered by CSIRO.