Australia's national science agency, CSIRO, has announced the return of its Innovate to Grow: Agrifood program for Western Australian (WA) small to medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) looking to advance through innovation.
Applications are open for the free 8-week online program, delivered by CSIRO with support from the WA Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development (DPIRD).
Michelle Armistead, Innovate to Grow Program Manager at CSIRO, said the program addresses innovation needs in Western Australia's diverse agricultural landscape.
"This program opens doors for local businesses to work with researchers in a way that's straightforward and practical," Ms Armistead said.
"We help businesses turn their innovative ideas into real projects that can solve their everyday challenges.
“Our goal is to make the research world accessible so that even small businesses can partner with experts to bring their innovations to life."
Innovate to Grow bridges the gap between innovative SMEs and research organisations, helping businesses identify commercial R&D opportunities and navigate the often-complex research landscape.
DPIRD Investment Services Manager, Peter May, said the program supports the department's strategic focus on boosting agrifood innovation across regional and metropolitan areas of WA.
"This initiative directly addresses the needs of agrifood businesses that may not otherwise have access to advanced research capabilities," Mr May said.
"The program aligns with our goal to enhance the competitiveness of WA's primary producers and food manufacturers, helping them adopt new technologies and practices that drive productivity and open new market opportunities."
Jo Barrett, from the Little Picket restaurant, participated in the Innovate to Grow program in 2024.
“The program really clarified what I needed to do to progress with my idea,” Ms Barrett said.
“I thought I was in a good position before Innovate to Grow, but I soon realised I didn't know what I didn't know! I'm so grateful for this opportunity - it has been invaluable. I've come away feeling more confident and excited."
Innovate to Grow: Agrifood – WA is open to SMEs working in the following sub-sectors:
- Meat and meat product manufacturing
- Agriculture and fishing support services
- Aquaculture
- Livestock
- Beverage manufacturing
- Food product manufacturing
- Alternative proteins
- Agritech
Applications for CSIRO's Innovate to Grow: Agrifood – WA program close on 20 April 2025.
Learn more and apply or discover more programs for SMEs.
CSIRO Innovate to Grow: Agrifood WA is supported by the Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development WA.