Queensland manufacturers get R&D boost from CSIRO

Manufacturing innovation in Queensland is set for a significant boost with CSIRO rolling out a free training program for small and medium enterprises (SMEs).

The eight-week “Innovate to Grow: Queensland” program is designed to transform bright ideas into research-ready projects, with a special focus on regional businesses.

The program, part of the Queensland Government’s Regional University Industry Collaboration (RUIC) program, connects businesses with experienced researchers and industry mentors who know how to turn innovative concepts into commercial reality.

“One of the biggest challenges for SMEs is knowing how to effectively engage with the research sector,” explained RUIC Program Facilitator Dr Brendan Kidd.

“CSIRO’s Innovate to Grow bridges that gap by teaching businesses how to speak the language of R&D, identify the right research partners, and structure their projects in ways that attract both research interest and potential funding opportunities.”

Over one-third of the 650 previous participants have been from regional Australia, demonstrating strong engagement beyond city limits. Success stories include LP One, which is developing sustainable bio-based alternatives to conventional materials.

Queensland Chief Scientist Professor Kerrie Wilson emphasised that this training will equip manufacturers with essential tools for building university partnerships and commercialising innovations.

The program is now accepting expressions of interest from Queensland-based SMEs, with manufacturing being one of the key focus sectors.

Picture: credit CSIRO