Manufacturing SMEs invited to apply for CSIRO’s Innovate to Grow course

Applications have opened for SME manufacturers to apply for CSIRO’s Innovate to Grow, a free, ten-week, online program assisting companies “embarking on early-stage R&D or those venturing into new solutions”.

In a statement on Monday, the nation’s science organisation said the intake of the Advanced Manufacturing cohort would be the first following the announcement of an extra $20 million committed to Innovate to Grow earlier this month.

“Advanced manufacturing is a vitally important sector, employing over 800,000 people across Australia,” said Dr Marcus Zipper, Director of Manufacturing at CSIRO.

“It’s an exciting area of research and development for CSIRO, and we work collaboratively to connect SMEs with new technologies to improve efficiency, productivity, health, safety and environmental outcomes, while driving prosperity across the manufacturing sector.

“We translate research into products and processes that businesses want to adopt because what we’ve created is economically viable, more efficient and effective, and sustainable.” 

CSIRO said the program provides expert guidance to participants, who “will learn how to formulate a research question, assess its impact, and seek out strategic partnerships” as well as “acquire skills in developing a compelling R&D business case and funding proposal.”

Murray Connop, founder of Connop Metal, participated in the “2022 Innovate to Grow: Advanced Manufacturing” cohort, and said the experience provided invaluable connections to industry experts.

“I wholeheartedly recommend this program to fellow start-ups and small businesses in advanced manufacturing,” he said. 

“The invaluable connection to industry experts provided by this program has played a significant role in the success of my project.”

Applications close May 12. More information is available at this link. 

The first workshop for successful applicants will be held on June 6.

Editor’s note: CSIRO is a sponsor of this title’s ongoing Australia’s 50 Most Innovative Manufacturers campaign.

Picture: credit CSIRO

Further reading

CSIRO commits $20 million to SME Connect program

Innovate to Grow opens for WA agrifood companies

Applications open for CSIRO’s free Innovate to Grow program