Innovate to Grow program: Energy Applications are open for a free 10‑week program for small to medium enterprises (SMEs) working in the energy sector to investigate new research and development (R&D) opportunities. Be part of Australia’s energy transition There are endless opportunities for ideas that will solve the energy challenges of tomorrow, but how confident are you turning these into reality? If you are an SME interested in investigating new R&D solutions for the energy sector, but need help getting started, this program could help. Register today Applications close: 23 May 2022 Program starts: 16 June 2022 csiro.au/InnovatetoGrow “Significant benefits of being part of the ‘ecosystem’ – from which associations and opportunities flow.” – Amanda Falconer, Founder and CEO, Former participant Key program outcomes Personalised support: 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. Mentor: You will be paired with a researcher to help connect you with relevant specialists. Build your network: You will build key contacts in your sector, including researchers at CSIRO and universities, domain experts, funding professionals and other SMEs. Key things covered include: • Identifying your innovation opportunities. • Refining your value proposition. • Understanding the R&D viability. • Helping you build your business case. • Providing guidance on how to prepare a strong funding application. Who can attend Participants working or interested in working with the energy sector. This can be in any sub-sector including, but not limited to; • Hydrogen • Energy storage and batteries • Energy data systems • Low emission technology • Energy resources • Other Selection criteria (essential): • Australian registered and operating. • Business classified as small to medium (<200 employees). • A business currently, or in the early stages of, exploring R&D opportunities for their business. Other considerations: • Currently working in the energy sector (or have identified a new opportunity relevant to energy). • Any other information provided to support your application. • Have a clear need to develop your skills in R&D. Commitment and course outline Week 1 | Preparing for the program (~2 hours) Pre-workshop videos, materials and questionnaires. Week 2 | 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 mentor. Weeks 3–10 | Self-paced innovation program (2–3 hours per week) Participants explore opportunities to grow their business through innovation and research. Fortnightly virtual participant networking events and additional webinars (1 hour each). A final questionnaire is required at completion. “The perfect solution in the current times... nobody knows their product/markets and how to improve them like SMEs, they just don’t have the resources to develop them. This course taps that knowledge rich base and links with the resources.” – Hamish Shaw, GM, Former participant We often receive many more applications than spots available and can only offer 25–30 spots. CSIRO awards places to businesses based on the strength of the application, and a clear interest and capacity to pursue R&D. We also include participants from a variety of industry sub‑sectors and regions. CSIRO Innovate to Grow is delivered using Practera’s online ed-tech platform and facilitation services. For further information Michelle Armistead Innovate to Grow Program Coordinator michelle.armistead@csiro.au csiro.au/innovatetogrow