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About the program

The Regional University Industry Collaboration (RUIC) program is designed exclusively for Queensland-based SMEs, providing support at every stage of their R&D journey. The program offers the skills, funding, expertise, and networks necessary to drive innovation across the state’s regions.

Eligible SMEs can access:

  • Regional research facilitators - a single, responsive point of contact and end-to-end support in all aspects of the RUIC program.
  • Dollar-matched funding - access up to $50,000 to conduct a collaborative R&D project with a partner university.
  • Free R&D training - refine your research question through our Innovate to Grow program.
  • Networking opportunities - expand your network by connecting with innovation experts, investors, university partners, and fellow SMEs.

Program offerings

Dollar-matched funding

Eligible Queensland SMEs can access up to $50,000 in dollar-matched funding to collaborate on research projects with our world-class regional university partners.

Innovate to Grow Program

Innovate to Grow is a training and mentorship program for SMEs looking to explore research and development for their business.

Frequently Asked Questions

Find answers to your questions about the Regional University Industry Collaboration (RUIC) program, including eligibility criteria, funding details, application processes, and more.

Learn more

Program Collaborators

The RUIC program is funded by the Queensland Government and delivered by CSIRO.

Black and White Queensland Government Logo

Partner Universities

JCU, James Cook University logo
CQUniversity Australia logo
University of the Sunshine Coast
university of the sunshine coast logo

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Program news

Free R&D training for Queensland SMEs

Applications for a free online R&D training program opened today for Queensland-based small to medium enterprises (SMEs) working on innovative solutions or technologies. 

Research to help hydrogen-electric aircraft take off

A hydrogen-electric aircraft is powering up and is aiming to fly from Gladstone to Brisbane, to demonstrate it is possible to decarbonise aviation.

Ready, set, research: CSIRO opens new program for Queensland SMEs

Small to medium-sized enterprises and researchers based in Queensland are urged to apply for a new program aimed to foster innovation across the state’s regions.