Applications for Round 2 of the RISE Accelerator will open Q3/4 2024.
To be notified of future rounds including our upcoming round that will focus on Climate Smart AgTech, subscribe to our mailing list.
If you have questions about the RISE Accelerator program, please email RISEaccelerator@csiro.au
The India Australia Rapid Innovation and Startup Expansion (RISE) Accelerator is purpose-built to help Indian and Australian startups with mature cutting-edge technology fast-track their cross-border impact.
RISE Accelerator is delivered through a powerful partnership between:
- CSIRO
- Atal Innovation Mission (AIM), NITI Aayog, the Government of India's flagship initiative to promote a culture of innovation and entrepreneurship in the country.
About the program
The RISE Accelerator provides support to startups, micro, and small- to medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) who are working on innovative technology and are considering overseas expansion between India and Australia.
The program is designed to support startups that are addressing shared national and global challenges, with a focus on environment and climate technologies and solutions.
The program is tailored to support startups and SMEs working on a range of areas such as:
- waste and circular economy (Round 1)
- climate start AgTech
- clean energy
- climate smart mobility.
There is no charge for startups to participate in the RISE Accelerator program.
What you'll get out of the program
Participating in the RISE Accelerator will help you amplify chances of success in India and Australia. Startups and SMEs will be able to:
- gain valuable market, cultural and regulatory insight
- fast track connections to the right partners and customers. We will connect you with people who will help you on your journey, including on-the-ground mentors, funders, suppliers, distributors, regulators and researchers
- grow and scale their technology and research overseas
- pilot, adapt and validate technology for a new market
- visibility of joint-innovation funds, grants and investors in each region.
Who should participate in the program
The program is open to startups and SMEs in India and Australia with mature innovative technology, typically with a high technology readiness level (e.g. pilot system developed, or actual system proven through successful operations), who are interested in expanding overseas.
Startups with a lower technology readiness level will be considered if they have clear potential to rapidly advance through expansion into India or Australia.
Visit the RISE Accelerator website for full eligibility criteria and to see if your business is suitable for the program.
How the program is delivered
The RISE Accelerator delivers a comprehensive learning program made up of both online self-paced and in-person sessions.
Over the course of nine months, you will embark on two key phases: Accelerate and Pilot, spanning across India and Australia.
Benefit from the expertise and support of our bilateral delivery team, including subject matter specialists and a dedicated ‘Expert-in-Residence’ (EIR) for one-to-one guidance and mentoring.
Expect to invest about six hours per week into the program, comprising live sessions, self-paced learning, and engaging with experts. Additional time commitment will be required for in-person travel experiences.
How to apply
To apply for the RISE Accelerator you must meet the program eligibility criteria.
You will need to complete an online application and provide us with information about your startup or SME.
Applications for Round 1 have now closed. Subscribe to our mailing list for updates on future rounds.
Need more information?
Read our list of frequently asked questions