CSIRO is on the hunt for agrifood operators looking to develop their businesses through R&D by participating in a free, online learning program.
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Innovate to Grow is designed for established small to medium sized businesses who want to investigate their R&D opportunities, or are in the early decision-making stages about engaging in R&D.
This self-paced learning program helps SMEs develop insights and strategies needed to leverage research and development to meet specific business needs.
Program manager Dr George Feast said Innovate to Grow brought together a nationwide cohort of SMEs, experienced, industry-specific researchers, and innovation experts.
"The next round will focus on the agrifood sector," Dr Feast said.
"Participants will identify their technical and business challenges, explore what R&D opportunities exist to overcome those challenges, and develop business and funding plans to ascertain whether those opportunities are right to pursue further."
SMEs make up almost 98 per cent of all Australian businesses, produce one third of our total GDP, and employ 44pc of the workforce.
Last year's Australian National Outlook report found more innovative industries were needed, that understood and committed to R&D, to drive growth and keep our economy resilient.
Dr Feast said the Innovate to Grow program was focused on helping SME's develop relevant skills, using real business projects and funding opportunities.
"Participants finish the program with a suite of tools to enable ongoing R&D planning," Dr Feast said.
"Furthermore, regular online workshops and panels also give SMEs the chance to build their own networks with experts, advisors and peers in their industry."
Applications close on October 16.
