Regional University Industry Collaboration Program (RUIC)

Regional University Industry Collaboration Program (RUIC) is sponsored by CSIRO. The Regional University Industry Collaboration (RUIC) program is designed for Queensland-based SMEs, providing support at every stage of their R&D journey. The program offers skills, funding, expertise, and networks to drive innovation across the state's regions.

Regional University Industry Collaboration Program - CSIRO Regional University Industry Collaboration Program Driving innovation and economic growth in Queensland by connecting SMEs with regional universities, providing skills, funding, and networks needed to transform R&D ideas into impactful solutions.

The Regional University Industry Collaboration (RUIC) program connects Queensland-based SMEs with regional universities to help solve technical challenges and progress new ideas. Funded by the Queensland Government and delivered by CSIRO, the program gives businesses access to research capability that's often hard to reach and supports collaboration from early conversations through to project scoping.

Eligible SMEs can access: Regional research facilitators - a single, responsive point of contact and end-to-end support in all aspects of the RUIC program. Dollar-matched funding - access up to $50,000 to conduct a collaborative R&D project with a partner university. Free R&D training - refine your research question through our Innovate to Grow program.

Networking opportunities - expand your network by connecting with innovation experts, investors, university partners, and fellow SMEs. Applications are open year-round. Eligible Queensland SMEs can access up to $50,000 in dollar-matched funding to collaborate on research projects with our world-class regional university partners.

Through the RUIC masterclass series we're supporting researchers from regional Queensland universities to build industry engagement skills, connect with local businesses, and turn research into real-world impact. The RUIC program is funded by the Queensland Government and delivered by CSIRO.

Our team of expert consultants provide end-to-end support to connect researchers and SMEs, helping with project scoping, funding applications, and fostering collaborations that turn R&D ideas into real-world solutions. Updates on CSIRO programs, funding and opportunities for SMEs - straight to your inbox.

Case studies and program news An Indigenous-led collaboration plans to develop Australia's first commercial giant freshwater prawn industry in Far North Queensland, combining ancient knowledge with modern hatchery science to create jobs and food security.

A nurse practitioner-led telehealth pathway supported by artificial intelligence (AI) is helping hip replacement patients recover more comfortably at home, reducing travel demands and improving outcomes through advanced recovery care. Research to help hydrogen-electric aircraft take off A hydrogen-electric aircraft is powering up and is aiming to fly from Gladstone to Brisbane, to demonstrate it is possible to decarbonise aviation.

Ready, set, research: CSIRO opens new program for Queensland SMEs Small to medium-sized enterprises and researchers based in Queensland are urged to apply for a new program aimed to foster innovation across the state’s regions. Find out how we can help you and your business. Get in touch using the form below and our experts will get in contact soon!

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