CSIRO Kick-Start
Australian Government program matching funds for startups and small businesses to access CSIRO's world-class research capabilities for innovation and commercialisation projects.
Overview
CSIRO Kick-Start is an Australian Government program that helps early-stage startups and small businesses access CSIRO's world-class scientific research capabilities. Through matched funding, eligible companies receive up to $50,000 in government funding matched dollar-for-dollar by the business to work with CSIRO researchers on innovation projects. CSIRO (Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation) is Australia's national science agency with over 1,500 researchers across fields including agriculture, manufacturing, environment, digital, health, and energy. Kick-Start helps bridge the gap between scientific expertise and commercial application.
What You Can Find Here
- Matched grant funding up to $50,000 for projects engaging CSIRO scientific expertise
- Access to CSIRO researchers across all scientific domains
- Access to CSIRO's specialized equipment, facilities, and testing infrastructure
- Proof-of-concept and feasibility study support for early-stage innovations
- Connection to CSIRO's broader innovation ecosystem and commercialisation networks
- Follow-on research collaboration pathways beyond initial Kick-Start project
Who Should Use This
- Australian startups with fewer than 50 employees needing scientific expertise to advance their innovation
- Early-stage companies with a proof-of-concept or prototype seeking scientific validation
- SMEs working in areas where CSIRO has relevant expertise (agriculture, biotech, materials, digital, environment)
- Companies that cannot afford full commercial rates for specialist scientific research
How to Get Started
- Step 1: Visit csiro.au/kick-start to check eligibility and current program availability
- Step 2: Identify the CSIRO research area or capability relevant to your innovation project
- Step 3: Contact CSIRO to discuss your project and identify suitable researchers
- Step 4: Develop a joint research plan with your CSIRO project partner
- Step 5: Apply for Kick-Start funding through the CSIRO portal and await approval before commencing
Things to Check Before Applying
- Kick-Start requires the company to match CSIRO funding dollar-for-dollar (e.g. $50,000 company + $50,000 CSIRO = $100,000 project)
- The company must engage CSIRO specifically - the program cannot be used for research at universities or other institutions
- Eligible companies must be Australian-registered with fewer than 50 full-time equivalent employees
- CSIRO owns IP from Kick-Start projects by default - negotiate IP arrangements in the project agreement
- Project scope must be achievable within 12 months
Frequently Asked Questions
How much funding does CSIRO Kick-Start provide?
CSIRO Kick-Start provides matched funding up to $50,000 (matched by your company contribution), giving projects a maximum budget of $100,000.
Who owns the IP from a Kick-Start project?
By default CSIRO retains IP from Kick-Start projects. However, IP arrangements can be negotiated in the project agreement. Discuss IP ownership early with your CSIRO contact.
What sectors does CSIRO Kick-Start support?
CSIRO covers a wide range of disciplines including agriculture, health, mining, energy, environment, digital technology, materials, manufacturing, and marine science. If CSIRO has expertise in your area, Kick-Start can help.
Can startups from outside Australia apply?
No. Kick-Start is for Australian-registered companies. International companies with Australian subsidiaries may qualify.
How long do Kick-Start projects last?
Kick-Start projects are typically 12 months in duration.
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