Innovate to Grow: Circular Economy and Sustainability
Applications are open for a free 8-week R&D training program for small to medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) working on circular economy and sustainability solutions. 
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 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:26 April 2026
Program starts: 21 May 2026
www.csiro.au/I2GQueensland


Key program outcomes
Refine your research 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 your 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)
Onboarding session, pre-workshop video and reading materials.

Program start: 23 April 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, innovation experience
and funding. You will also meet your fellow participantsand R&D coach.

Weeks 1–8
Program timeline (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 circular economy and
sustainability related technologies. This can be in any sub-sector including:
Manufacturing
Transport
Energy, fuel, batteries and storage
Construction materials
Agriculture, food and beverage
Reducing plastic waste
Mining and METS
Digital, robotics and AI.

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 the circular economy or sustainability.

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

Previous participant
‘Participating in Innovate to Grow has been transformative
for us. The guidance from our mentor helped us navigate
complex hurdles and gave us the tools and mindset to
innovate with purpose and impact.’
– Ms Leanne Edge, Eco Barge Clean Seas Inc.


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/I2GQueensland.


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