Innovate to Grow: 
Queensland 
Applications are open for a free 8-week R&D training program for 
small- to medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) working 
on innovation technologies or solutions. 
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 self-paced 8-week program will build your skills 
and networks so you can learn how to advance your idea 
with R&D. 
Apply today 
Applications close: 16 March 2025 
Program starts: 10 April 2025 
csiro.au/I2Gqld

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. 
Mentor: You will be paired with an R&D coach from CSIRO 
or a university to answer your questions and 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: 
Create a strong research question for your idea 
Assess the value of your innovation 
Work out your collaboration options 
Compose a high impact R&D business case 
Prepare a funding application. 
Commitment and course outline 
Preparing for the program (3–4 hours) 
Pre-workshop videos, onboarding, materials 
and questionnaires. 
Week 1 
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 2–8 
Self-paced innovation program (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 Queensland 
Australia who are working on innovation technologies 
or solutions. This can be in any sub-sector including: 
Agriculture and food 
Digital technologies and AI 
Environmental sciences 
Health and biomedical sciences 
Indigenous science 
Manufacturing 
Mining and METS 
Renewables and low emissions technologies 
Space and defence 
Transport 
Selection criteria (essential): 
A business based and operating in Queensland 
Australia that is registered with an ABN and ACN/ 
ICN 
A business classified as small to medium 
(<200 employees) 
An R&D idea to work on throughout the program 
related to one of the subsectors mentioned 
Please note: Sole traders, partnerships and Australian 
subsidiary companies of foreign entities are not eligible. 
Researchers working at universities can apply as a 
mentor but not a participant. 
Other considerations: 
Any other information provided to support 
your application 
Have a clear need to develop your knowledge 
and skills in R&D 
‘Innovate to Grow is a great introduction program at the early 
stages of your business and/or idea. The staged process for 
deliverables and assistance from mentors has been great, 
helping us progress from initial concept to developing 
potential research collaborations. Overall, I am grateful for the 
opportunity to be part of the program.’ 
– James Lister, LP One 
CSIRO Innovate to Grow is delivered using Practera’s 
online ed-tech platform and facilitation services. 
For further information 
InnovatetoGrow@csiro.au 
csiro.au/I2Gqld 
The Regional University Industry (RUIC) Program is funded by the Queensland Government and delivered by CSIRO.