Applications have now closed for the latest round of the India Australia Rapid Innovation and Startup Expansion (RISE) Accelerator, an initiative by CSIRO — Australia’s national science agency — aimed at propelling Australian startups and SMEs with innovative renewable energy technologies into the Indian market.
Launched in 2023, the RISE Accelerator is designed to help businesses with scalable climate and environmental solutions expand internationally, with a particular focus on India.
The program’s third round sought deployable, novel solutions in solar, battery, wind, and hydrogen technologies that address key challenges in clean energy manufacturing, storage, and management.
Selected participants will test, validate, and pilot their solutions, addressing one or more of these 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.
The program offers a comprehensive support package, including self-paced online learning, in-person workshops, market immersion visits, and one-on-one coaching from leading industry experts and mentors.
The focus is on improving market readiness and commercial potential, with a strong emphasis on Indian market entry.
Lucie Semenec, co-founder of Newera Bio and a previous RISE Accelerator participant, highlighted the program’s impact: “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,” Semenec said.
James Robinson, CSIRO’s RISE Accelerator program director said: “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.”
Participation in the RISE Accelerator is free of charge, and selected companies may be eligible for up to $135,000 in non-equity grants, subject to performance milestones and competitive assessment.
With applications for this round now closed, the RISE Accelerator continues to position itself as a vital platform for Australian renewable energy innovators seeking to scale globally and contribute to the clean energy transition.
