Free innovation program launched to help energy SMEs boost R&D

An online learning program is now available to small to medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in the energy sector, to help support their research, product development and innovation ambitions.

Green light idea

Innovate to Grow: Energy is a free 10-week virtual, self-paced learning program delivered by CSIRO, Australia’s national science agency.

Monika Szabo, SME Collaboration Manager for CSIRO, said Innovate to Grow is a great opportunity for businesses looking to turn an idea into a viable research and development (R&D) opportunity and hear directly from CSIRO energy experts.

”The rapidly changing needs of the Australian energy sector presents significant opportunities to innovate," Dr Szabo said.

“There is potential in intelligent models, systems and products to reduce emissions and improve the ways energy is produced, used and stored.

“At the completion of the program participants will have received assistance in defining their goals, developing a business case for R&D with a university or CSIRO, and even prepare a funding proposal," she said.

Fionna Millikan from Green Gravity was a part of the 2022 energy cohort and says the course offered practical advice and helped her business to generate new opportunities.

“The program was very practical and hands on. [Facilitator] Tony was an excellent steward and the mentor provided excellent advice and connected me with potential research partners," Ms Millikan said.

Applications close Monday 10 April. The program will commence on Thursday 4 May.

More information on Innovate to Grow is available here.

Industry Partners