Edition 1 January 2022

The latest updates and more

News from your national science agency CSIRO

• Innovate to Grow: Cyber applications are open now until 14 February. Read more about eligibility and this special skills based program for SMEs looking into R&D projects.
• Find out what makes for a good R&D collaboration between your business and research organisations like CSIRO or universities with our latest report. We surveyed 800 businesses like you to make future connections easier and more impactful.

From the innovation ecosystem

• NSW SME with a solution for COVID related innovation or economic recovery? Funding for innovative COVID19 related products and services is still available as part of the NSW government’s tech vouchers scheme. Open until 10 February or until funds are exhausted.
• Breakthrough Victoria is a new independent investment management company established in 2021. Your SME's project may be what they are looking for. They invest and manage the Victorian Government’s $2 billion Breakthrough Victoria Fund. Get your proposal in today. Read the investment categories and find out more on their website.
• Space sector startup or company? Why not nominate your hard working team or partner in this year’s Australian Space Awards? Wide variety of Award categories to choose from and its free to enter. Closes 3 February.
• Congratulations to the Tech23 Finalists for 2021! We are proud that nine of the featured 23 most innovative companies in 2021’s list has CSIRO genus via Kick-Start, Innovation Connections or more. Curious? Why not get involved? You could be one of the Tech23 in 2022!
• Free small-business mental health support program by Beyond Blue. ‘NewAccess for Small Business Owners’ is a free and confidential mental health coaching program, developed by Beyond Blue to give small business owners, including sole traders the support they need.

CSIRO SME Connect are here to help

• Looking to work with CSIRO or University researchers on your R&D project? Innovation Connections might be for you.
• Start your expression of interest form to get going on your Kick-Start project. Finished your Kick-Start project and looking for new R&D opportunities with CSIRO or universities? You may now be eligible for Innovation Connections.