Innovate to Grow: Advanced Manufacturing
Applications are open for a free 8-week program for small to medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) working on advanced manufacturing solutions. The program supports participants to explore how research and development (R&D) can advance their project or ideas.

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: 22 March 2026
Program starts: 23 April 2026
www.csiro.au/advancedmanufacturing


Australia's National Science Agency

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 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:
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 participants 
and 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 Australia who are working on advanced manufacturing solutions including any sub-sector such as:
Additive manufacturing
Advanced materials and processes
Composites
Digital, robotics and automation
Mechatronic design and precision engineering
Quality assurance and measurement
Quantum technology
Sensors and IoT

Selection criteria (essential): 
A business based and operating in 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 advanced manufacturing 

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.

Previous participant feedback
“The course was extremely valuable and well structured. It provided clear guidance on what is required to plan and execute an R&D focused innovation project.”
– Mr Damien Stein, Energy & Resources Technical Services


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.au/advancedmanufacturing


CSIRO Innovate to Grow: Advanced Manufacturing is sponsored by AMRF Connect, a scale-up hub at Bradfield City Centre that accelerates manufacturing growth by connecting businesses with essential resources and networks. Operated by Western Sydney University's Launch Pad and CSIRO, the hub provides manufacturers with access to investors, research organisations, and local to international business networks.