Innovate to Grow (Queensland): Digital Technologies and AI
Applications are open for a free 8-week program for small to medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) working on digital technology and artificial intelligence (AI) solutions. 

The program supports participants to explore how research and development (R&D) can advance your project and ideas. 
Delivered as part of the Queensland Government funded Regional University Industry Collaboration (RUIC) program.

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 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: 20 September 2026
Program starts: 15 October 2026
www.csiro.au/DigiTech


Key program outcomes
Refine your idea: We'll step you through the process of turning your idea into a viable research project.
Confidential feedback: Meet with a CSIRO facilitator to discuss program exercises and business challenges.
Coaching: Learn more about research projects and get connected to an expert with help from an R&D coach.
Build your network: You will build key contacts in your sector, including researchers and other SMEs.


Key program outputs include how to:
Identify strengths and weaknesses of your business idea 
Build your R&D project plan
Develop your project roadmap and funding strategy 
Review your business idea and create a list of priorities and actions.


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

Program start: 15 October 2026
Workshop (3.5 hours)
Guest speakers from CSIRO, sector experts and SMEs
who will provide tips and information on topics such
as trends and opportunities and innovation experience
You will also meet your fellow participants and
R&D coach.

Weeks 1–8
Program timeline (2–3 hours per week)
You’ll explore opportunities to grow your
business through innovation and research.
Fortnightly virtual webinars for participant networking
and guest speakers.

Who can attend
Participants based and operating in Queensland
Australia working on digital technologies and AI solutions.
This can be in any of the following sub-sectors:
Artificial intelligence, including computer vision, machine learning, GPTs and LLMs and natural language processing.
Digital manufacturing
Quantum manufacturing and computing
Cybersecurity
Robotics and autonomous systems
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 any of the subsectors listed.

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

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


Hear from a previous program participant:
‘Innovate to Grow will support our future R&D planning and
improvements, with the exercises serving as a compass
while we’re already working in the field.’
– Mr Ray Kwon, BeeSTAR.


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

For further information:
Email: InnovatetoGrow@csiro.au or visit www.csiro/DigiTech


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