CSIRO to empower SMEs through digital technologies and artificial intelligence

Australia’s national science agency, CSIRO, is helping small to medium enterprises (SMEs) enhance their research and development (R&D) knowledge with a free 10-week online program focused on digital technologies and Artificial Intelligence (AI).

CSIRO’s Innovate to Grow: Digital Technologies and Artificial Intelligence program connects businesses working on solutions in digital technologies and AI with knowledge, resources, and mentors to learn how to advance their project or ideas.

Dr Liming Zhu, CSIRO’s Data61 Research Director for Software and Computational Systems, said an Innovate to Grow program focused on digital technologies and AI could not be timelier.

“Digital technologies and AI continue to reshape industries and drive economic growth,” Dr Zhu said.

“The rise of generative AI and large language models like ChatGPT are rapidly transforming the digital and cyber innovation landscape.

“Whether they’re creating knowledge-intensive products or seeking to add innovative features to interact with customers, companies can tap into new growth opportunities thanks to the increasing power of generative AI.”

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.

Michelle Armistead, CSIRO’s Innovate to Grow Program Coordinator, encouraged Australian SMEs to apply, as successful applicants are given 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,” Mrs Armistead said.

“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.”

Innovate to Grow: Digital Technologies and Artificial Intelligence is open to SMEs working in the following subsectors:

• AI, including:
  • Computer vision
  • Machine learning
  • ChatGPT/large language models
  • Natural language processing
  • Digital manufacturing
  • Quantum computing
  • Cybersecurity
  • Robotics and autonomous systems
  • Other  ​​

Applications close on 21 July 2024.  

Learn more and apply for the ‘Innovate to Grow’: Digital Technologies and Artificial Intelligence program, or discover more programs for SMEs.