CSIRO providing R&D support to SMEs

Tuesday, 18 July, 2023

CSIRO is providing free research and development (R&D) support to businesses working in the plastic and recycling sector.

Small and medium sized enterprises (SMEs) working on advanced solutions to innovate plastic waste are invited to apply for the free, 10-week Innovate to Grow program to support their commercial idea by building their R&D knowledge.

CSIRO has a goal to reduce 80% of plastic waste entering the Australian environment by 2030. The Ending Plastic Waste Mission intends to support a sustainable plastics circular economy to reduce impacts on the environment while delivering economic benefits.

Dr Deborah Lau, CSIRO’s Ending Plastic Waste Mission Lead, said it is important for science and industry to collaborate in this area and accelerate scientific advancements and technologies through R&D.

Each year, 90 billion tonnes of primary materials are extracted and used for plastics, of which only 9% is recycled.

“SMEs play a key role in driving Australia’s circular economy and new industries. This program will help facilitate innovation to drive future pathways for managing plastic waste,” Lau said.

George Feast, Deputy Director of CSIRO’s SME Connect, encouraged SMEs to come with a specific plastic or recycling idea to explore throughout the program.

During the program, CSIRO experts will guide businesses through how to refine the idea, understand its research viability and begin the process of engaging a university or research institution to deliver an R&D project.

After completing the program, eligible participants may have the opportunity to access facilitation support, through CSIRO, to connect to research expertise and dollar-matched R&D funding.

The program is open to SMEs in the following sub-sectors: