The national science agency CSIRO announced the opening of a new edition of the Innovate to Grow program. The program’s latest iteration will focus on small to medium enterprises (SMEs) that are looking to develop their innovative ideas in food innovation and technology.
In particular, the new Innovate to Grow: Food Innovation is open to SMEs working in beverage manufacturing, food production, traditional and complementary proteins, bio-manufacturing (including precision fermentation), and sustainable processing sub-sectors, among others.
Led by experienced researchers, the program will help participants examine technical and business challenges, explore research and development (R&D) opportunities, and develop actionable business and funding plans for their R&D ideas.
CSIRO’s Agriculture and Food Deputy Director (Impact), Dr Michelle Colgrave, said that SMEs are key to boosting Australia’s reputation as a global leader in food technology.
“We can combine innovations in fermentation with ‘customer driven’ preferences to deliver reduced sugar beverages, or no and low alcohol wines,” Colgrave said.
“To match our growing population, changing climates and evolving consumer preferences, there’s an increasing need to diversify and develop new food and beverages that will be sustainable into the future.”
Colgrave added, “We are well positioned to do that in Australia with our access to the latest technologies and brightest minds. SMEs will be an important part of that, driving innovation right along the supply chain while delivering sustainable outcomes for the future of our food manufacturing.”
Since launching in 2020, Innovate to Grow has helped more than 600 early-stage R&D companies access the knowledge and tools required to progress their ideas.
Applications are open until 25 August 2024.
