Applications open for free CSIRO-run cybersecurity innovation program

SMEs developing new cybersecurity solutions have been invited to join the free CSIRO-run “Innovate to Grow” R&D support program, which runs for ten weeks and begins December 1.

The CSIRO said on Monday that new solutions were required to combat the rising incidence of cybercrime, with reported incidents up 13 per cent during the 2020-21 financial year, according to the Australian Cyber Security Centre.

“Much of this can be driven by SMEs – who make up 99.8 per cent of all businesses in Australia – developing new cyber products and services powered by R&D,” said SME Connect Deputy Director George Feast.

“However, R&D can be an expensive undertaking for businesses and risky for those without the right guidance and support.

“Through our Innovate to Grow program, we invite participants to come with a specific cyber security commercial idea they’d like to explore. Over 10 weeks we’ll step businesses through how to refine their idea, to understand its research viability, and begin engaging a university or research institution to deliver a collaborative R&D project.”

According to the national research organisation, key outcomes of the course will include:

• 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 provided with a mentor from CSIRO or a university to assist you with understanding the program deliverables and connecting you to relevant specialists.
• Build your network: You will build key contacts in your sector, including researchers at CSIRO and universities, domain experts, funding professionals and other SMEs.

Applications for the online, self-paced program close on November 7. More information is available here.

Picture credit: Australian Signals Directorate