CSIRO has expanded its Kick-Start Program, offering research and development funding and expertise to more Australian small to medium enterprises (SMEs).
The program now offers support for businesses with a turnover of up to $10 million, a significant increase from the previous eligibility of companies with a turnover of up to $1.5 million.
The CSIRO Kick-Start program aims to support Australian SMEs and scale-ups by providing facilitation and dollar-matched funding, enabling them to access CSIRO’s research expertise and capabilities for company-led R&D projects.
The program targets a wide range of visionary businesses, spanning AI-powered tech, native skincare, hydrogen prototypes, and Indigenous farming.
Dr Doug Hilton, CSIRO’s newly appointed CEO, said the expansion of the program reflects the agency’s commitment to create benefit for Australia by supporting local entrepreneurship and innovation.
“CSIRO can absolutely play a role in supporting SMEs to embrace research and in stimulating entrepreneurship among our scientists and others in the community,” Dr Hilton said.
“Expanding the eligibility of the CSIRO Kick-Start program means we can offer more Australian businesses, more Australian innovators, more Australian entrepreneurs’ access to the resources, knowledge, and support they need to flourish.”
Through the Kick-Start program, small businesses will be able to connect with relevant CSIRO researchers’ expertise and capability.
“In today’s rapidly evolving business landscape, innovation is the lifeblood of success. Yet, many start-ups and SMEs face barriers, such as limited expertise and insufficient funding, that hinder R&D access,” said Dr Megan Sebben, program manager for the Kick-Start Program.
“Our program serves as a driver for change, providing comprehensive facilitation to overcome these challenges.”
For more information about the CSIRO Kick-Start Program or to submit an expression of interest, visit csiro.au.
