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February 2026

Welcome to the first edition of SME Connections for 2026. As we kick off the new year, we're highlighting recent developments across CSIRO's programs and upcoming opportunities to support your business goals.

Free R&D training for farm and food tech SMEs

Innovate to Grow: Farm and Food Technology

A free online program designed to help startups and SMEs learn how to plan collaborative research and development projects. Applications close Sunday, 15 February.

Apply now

More CSIRO programs

iPhD

The program connects CSIRO, universities and industry to co-design PhD projects. EOI open for research projects 2 Feb - 2 Apr.

RUIC

Queensland SMEs can access up to $50,000 in dollar-matched funding through the Regional University Industry Collaboration (RUIC) program - funded by the Queensland Government and delivered by CSIRO.

Kick-Start

This program for Australian-based SMEs offers dollar-matched funding from $10,000 to $50,000 for collaborative research projects.

WAFEC

The Western Australia Food Industry Education Collaboration (WAFEC) program provides high-quality internships and workplace skills to help businesses solve technical challenges.

ON Prime

Whether you’re exploring new applications for your technology, seeking funding, or preparing for commercialisation, ON Prime equips researchers to explore where their expertise can make the greatest impact. Apply by 4 March 2026.

Apply now

Ecosystem opportunities

Remarkable 2026 Launcher Pre-Accelerator: Launcher supports early-stage founders and teams developing inclusive technology solutions across disability, ageing, and health tech. If you’re still exploring an idea or developing an early solution, this may be a good opportunity to test, refine, and validate your work with support. Applications close on 15 February 2026.  Learn more and apply.

New ecosystem report: Startup Muster 2025

What Startup Muster reveals about Australia's startup ecosystem

Startup Muster’s latest snapshot outlines the state of Australia’s startup ecosystem, with insights relevant to research-driven and deep-tech founders. The report highlights the mainstreaming of AI, sustained strength in deep tech addressing national challenges, and a shift toward leaner, more capital-efficient teams.

Read now