Free Innovate to Grow program taking applications from cyber security, digital technology SMEs

An upcoming round of CSIRO’s Innovate to Grow program, which provides free coaching on R&D for SMEs, is accepting nominations from cyber security and digital technology sector companies until September 17.

The program provides ten weeks of online classes and links participants to “expert knowledge, resources, and mentors” according to the national science agency. It is open to companies with fewer than 200 employees. 

“SMEs are the lifeblood of Australia, and many have innovative business ideas and solutions that could help mitigate cyber security threats and deliver a positive impact to other Australian businesses and the economy,” said Dr Marthie Grobler, Principal Research Scientist in human-centred cyber security at CSIRO’s Data61.

“These businesses tend to face a myriad of challenges in bringing their ideas to life, namely investment of money, time and resources.

According to the course’s description, it will assist companies to:

• identify your innovation opportunities
• refine your value proposition
• understand the R&D viability
• help you build your business case
• provide guidance on how to prepare a strong funding application.

The round’s intake will begin its course on October 12.

CSIRO’s SME Connect Program Advisor Liz Crompton said in a statement that Innovate to Grow had seen increased interest over the two years it has been running.

“The program is giving SMEs the opportunity to develop their ideas into a real-world R&D project, leading to potential commercial outputs, revenue and/or employment growth,” added Crompton.

More information is available here.

Picture: supplied

Further reading

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Applications open for CSIRO’s free Innovate to Grow program