Australia’s national science agency CSIRO is offering small to medium enterprises (SMEs) a free 10-week online program focused on digital technologies and artificial intelligence (AI).
The program, Innovate to Grow: Digital Technologies and Artificial Intelligence, aims to connect businesses developing digital technology and AI solutions with vital knowledge, resources, and mentorship to help advance their projects.
Dr Liming Zhu, research director for Software and Computational Systems at CSIRO’s Data61, emphasised the timeliness of this initiative.
“Digital technologies and AI continue to reshape industries and drive economic growth,” Dr Zhu stated.
“The rise of generative AI and large language models like ChatGPT are rapidly transforming the digital and cyber innovation landscape. Whether companies are creating knowledge-intensive products or seeking to add innovative features to interact with customers, they can now tap into new growth opportunities thanks to the increasing power of generative AI,” he explained.
Since its inception in 2020, Innovate to Grow has supported over 600 early-stage R&D companies, equipping them with the necessary knowledge and tools to progress their ideas.
Michelle Armistead, Program Coordinator for Innovate to Grow, encouraged Australian SMEs to apply, noting that successful applicants would gain access to expert facilitators and experienced researchers.
“Australian SMEs are crucial to the growth and resilience of our economy, particularly in emerging industries like digital tech and artificial intelligence,” Armistead remarked.
“Past participants have found immense value in working through the self-paced deliverables and connecting with our expert advisors, helping them to make informed decisions about advancing their R&D plans.”
The Innovate to Grow: Digital Technologies and Artificial Intelligence program is open to SMEs working in various subsectors, including:
- AI, such as computer vision, machine learning, ChatGPT/large language models, and natural language processing
- Digital manufacturing
- Quantum computing
- Cybersecurity
- Robotics and autonomous systems
Applications for the program close on 21 July 2024.
Interested SMEs can learn more and apply for the Innovate to Grow: Digital Technologies and Artificial Intelligence program, or explore other programs designed for SMEs.
