The return of CSIRO’s Innovate to Grow: Agrifood program in Western Australia (WA) has been announced.
The program targets start-ups and small to medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in hopes to advance WA’s agrifood sector through innovation.
With support from the WA Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development (DPIRD), the program will be delivered by CSIRO to address innovation needs in WA’s diverse agricultural landscape.
“This program opens doors for local businesses to work with researchers in a way that’s straightforward and practical,” said Innovate to Grow Program manager at CSIRO, Michelle Armistead.
“We help businesses turn their innovative ideas into real projects that can solve their everyday challenges.
“Our goal is to make the research world accessible so that even small businesses can partner with experts to bring their innovations to life.”
By connecting SMEs with research organisations, the program helps identify commercial R&D opportunities. Innovate to Grow: Agrifood – WA is open to SMEs working in the following sub-sectors:
- Meat and meat product manufacturing.
- Agriculture and fishing support services.
- Aquaculture.
- Livestock.
- Beverage manufacturing.
- Food product manufacturing.
- Alternative protein.
- Agritech.
The DPIRD’s focus on boosting agrifood innovation across both regional and metropolitan WA will be further supported through this program.
“This initiative directly addresses the needs of agrifood businesses that may not otherwise have access to advanced research capabilities,” said DPIRD Investment Services manager, Peter May.
“The program aligns with our goal to enhance the competitiveness of WA’s primary producers and food manufacturers, helping them adopt new technologies and practices that drive productivity and open new market opportunities.”
This is a free, eight-week online program, and applications are open until 20 April 2025.