CSIRO’s RISE Accelerator seeks innovative renewable energy solutions for global expansion

PRESS RELEASE

CSIRO, Australia’s national science agency, is inviting Australian startups and small- to medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) with innovative renewable energy technology solutions to join the India Australia Rapid Innovation and Startup Expansion (RISE) Accelerator. 

Launched in 2023, the RISE Accelerator program is designed to support businesses with scalable climate and environment solutions, helping them expand into the Indian market.  

The program’s upcoming renewable energy round will focus on supporting competitively selected companies to test, validate and pilot solutions that address clean and renewable energy manufacturing, storage and management challenges.

Round 3 seeks deployable, novel solutions in solar, battery, wind, and hydrogen solutions that address one or more of the following challenge statements: 
·      Advance critical mineral and materials processing, recovery, and reuse for clean energy
·      Enhance designs, components, infrastructure, or manufacturing pathways to boost performance, durability, and lifespan
·      Leverage software, hardware, or digital systems to improve manufacturing, asset management, storage, and deployment of renewable energy.

Program participants will benefit from a combination of self-paced online learning, in-person workshops, and market immersion visits.  
They will also receive one-on-one coaching from leading industry experts and mentors to improve their market readiness and commercial potential, focusing on Indian market opportunities.

Lucie Semenec, co-founder of Newera Bio and previous RISE Accelerator participant, praised the value of the program’s hands-on learning and networking opportunities.  

“The RISE program was extremely helpful in connecting us with the right people. It also helped us tap into valuable networks in India, gaining access to the resources necessary for pilot scaling and developing a minimal viable product,” Ms Semenec said. 

James Robinson, CSIRO’s RISE Accelerator program director, emphasised the importance of a multi-faceted approach to diversify clean energy supply chains and accelerate the energy transition, including boosting investment in R&D and scaling cutting-edge technologies developed by startups and SMEs. 

“Programs like RISE empower startups and SMEs to gain valuable local insights and forge in-country partnerships, significantly enhancing their potential for success and long-term impact.”   

There is no charge to participate in the program. Participating companies may also be eligible for up to A$135,000 in non-equity grants (subject to performance milestones and competitive assessment).   

Applications for the RISE Accelerator are now open and will close on 30 June 2025. Click here for more information or to apply.