Applications have opened for the latest cohort of SMEs working in the recycling and circular economy sectors through CSIRO’s free Innovate to Grow program.
The eight-week, purely online program will be run with Deakin University’s Recycling and Clean Energy Commercialisation Hub (REACH), which is funded through the federal government’s Trailblazer program.
According to a statement from CSIRO on Wednesday, it will be “led by experienced researchers” and help participants “examine technical challenges, explore… R&D opportunities, and develop actionable business and funding plans” for their R&D concept.
Dr Deborah Lau, the Ending Plastic Waste Research Lead at CSIRO, said more than 9.5 billion tonnes of plastic waste have been created since 1950, and only 9 per cent is recycled each year.
“Working with SMEs is essential to unlocking R&D opportunities that accelerate breakthroughs in science and technology,” said Lau.
“Through this program, we aim to spark innovation that will shape a sustainable circular ecosystem for plastics and waste through recycling, redesign and reuse.”
Requirements include the business having to be based and operating in Australia, with fewer than 200 employees, and currently in or in the early stages “of exploring R&D opportunities” related to manufacturing.
Innovate to Grow: Recycling and Circular Economy commences on March 13, with applications closing on February 16.
More information is available at this link.
Picture: credit government of Western Australia