CSIRO Launches Free Program to Support SMEs in Digital Technologies and AI

CSIRO provides the free 10-week online program to equip the Australian SME to develop R&D capabilities in digital technologies, including AI.

CSIRO has invited SMEs to submit an application for the Innovate to Grow Program: Digital Technologies and Artificial Intelligence. The 10-week online program gives SMEs access to expert advice and resources as well as guides the businesses in developing innovative solutions using AI and digital technologies. This will, therefore, be the programme that will support the firms in advancing R&D projects toward fully realizing emerging opportunities, exploring challenges, and thriving in these rapidly changing fields.

Dr. Liming Zhu, Research Director for Software and Computational Systems at CSIRO's Data61 business unit, said such a program has never been so important, with digital technologies and AI continuing to disrupt industries of all kinds. "The rise of generative AI and large language models-like ChatGPT-is mending the contours of digital and cyber innovation," Dr. Zhu said. "Businesses can make use of such advances to create new products, enhance customer interaction, and unlock new growth opportunities."

Since its establishment in 2020, the Innovate to Grow program has helped more than 600 early-stage R&D companies build on their ideas with the knowledge and tools to develop them further, including commercialisation. Michelle Armistead from CSIRO is the Innovate to Grow Program Coordinator and says Australian SMEs are also encouraged to apply.

The program is open to SMEs operating in a wide range of subsectors including AI, machine learning, digital manufacturing, cybersecurity, robotics, and quantum computing, among many others.

Closing date for applications under Innovate to Grow: Digital Technologies and Artificial Intelligence is 21st of July 2024.

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