Do you have an innovative research idea but aren't sure how to turn it into an R&D project? You're not alone.
Many SMEs find the research and development process challenging to navigate - especially if you haven't done it before.
CSIRO's Innovate to Grow program is designed specifically for businesses like yours.
What you'll gain
Throughout the program, you'll receive personalised support to refine your idea. We'll step you through the process of turning your concept into a viable research project, with confidential feedback from industry experts at every stage.
You'll be paired with an R&D coach from CSIRO or a university who will answer your questions and help connect you with relevant specialists.
Along the way, you'll build valuable connections in your industry, including researchers and other innovative SMEs.
Program outputs
By the end of your 8-week journey, you'll know 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.
The program combines a mix of self-paced learning, expert-led workshops, and one-on-one mentoring to ensure you get the support you need to advance your innovation journey.
Who should apply
- You’re working in a business with an ABN and less than 200 staff (startups are eligible if they are established)
- You’re working on an innovative idea that you think would benefit from research and development
- You are involved in decision making in the business or leading the innovation work.
Researcher at CSIRO or a university?
If you're a researcher at CSIRO or a university looking to spin out a company, CSIRO ON Prime or ON Accelerate would be a better fit.
Innovate to Grow timeline

How to submit an expression of interest
Innovate to Grow opens to different sectors monthly, with each intake focusing on a specific industry. Subscribe to be notified when a course opens in your sector and follow CSIRO on LinkedIn for announcements.Do you have an innovative research idea but aren't sure how to turn it into an R&D project? You're not alone.
Many SMEs find the research and development process challenging to navigate - especially if you haven't done it before.
CSIRO's Innovate to Grow program is designed specifically for businesses like yours.
What you'll gain
Throughout the program, you'll receive personalised support to refine your idea. We'll step you through the process of turning your concept into a viable research project, with confidential feedback from industry experts at every stage.
You'll be paired with an R&D coach from CSIRO or a university who will answer your questions and help connect you with relevant specialists.
Along the way, you'll build valuable connections in your industry, including researchers and other innovative SMEs.
Program outputs
By the end of your 8-week journey, you'll know 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.
The program combines a mix of self-paced learning, expert-led workshops, and one-on-one mentoring to ensure you get the support you need to advance your innovation journey.
Who should apply
- You’re working in a business with an ABN and less than 200 staff (startups are eligible if they are established)
- You’re working on an innovative idea that you think would benefit from research and development
- You are involved in decision making in the business or leading the innovation work.
Researcher at CSIRO or a university?
If you're a researcher at CSIRO or a university looking to spin out a company, CSIRO ON Prime or ON Accelerate would be a better fit.
Innovate to Grow timeline
Infographic timeline showing Innovate to Grow participation steps (left to right):
Step 1: Onboarding and pre-reading (3-4hrs)
Step 2: Virtual workshop (4hrs)
Step 3: Participate in the self-paced program - submit deliverables, talk to experts and attend webinars
Step 4: Receive certificate.