Finding opportunities through research, and translation and commercialisation
The Department for Industry, Innovation and Science (DIIS) works closely with industry, universities, research organisations and governments to promote research collaboration and investment and grow South Australia’s reputation for competitive global excellence in research.
We also support the adoption and application of new technologies and better practices to support research translation and commercialisation.
We want to see stronger translation and commercialisation outcomes to drive greater real-world productivity impacts, as well as an increased proportion of South Australian businesses and research organisations that collaborate for innovation purposes, and more startups and scale-ups developing innovative solutions.
South Australia's opportunity
Research and innovation activities, alongside the adoption of existing and emerging technologies, are key drivers of productivity growth and will be crucial for South Australian businesses to compete on the world stage.
South Australia’s Economic Statement outlines a vision for an economy that is fit for the future – that is smart, sustainable and inclusive.
South Australia boasts world-class research capability and globally recognised innovation districts. We now have the opportunity to enhance collaboration across all sectors of our economy.
To improve our performance and position South Australia to benefit from research, technology and innovation, we must capitalise on our research strengths, major investments and assets. We must also boost collaboration between industry and researchers, and support innovation and entrepreneurship networks, to translate knowledge into innovation and higher productivity.
Support programs for South Australia's research and innovation sector
Dealroom South Australia
Offering an open-access portal of data on a particular region’s startup and innovation ecosystem, Dealroom South Australia will make it easier for stakeholders such as policymakers, researchers, journalists and investors to learn about the increasing level of startup and innovation activity in South Australia.
Its free to register a profile with Dealroom, just use the guide below to get started, and to learn how to create or claim a startup listing.
The platform is designed to evolve and become more accurate over time as more people contribute and help us improve the tool.
A new statewide innovation model
As we prepare to take advantage of the enormous opportunities presented by AUKUS, the South Australian Government is introducing a new statewide innovation model, which will strategically connect the state’s growing innovation districts, including Lot Fourteen, Tonsley and Adelaide BioMed City.
A framework will connect these innovation districts with each other and with other knowledge and manufacturing hubs, including the Osborne Naval Shipyard, the Edinburgh Defence Precinct, and the future Australian Space Park.
The model will bring together all economic activity zones and innovation assets under a centralised strategic vision and policy position, unlocking greater value, stimulating economic growth, supporting valuable international knowledge transfer and collaboration, and creating new opportunities for jobs growth, linking education, skills and workforce programs.
It seeks to capitalise on South Australia’s competitive advantage in defence, space, advanced manufacturing and critical technologies industries.
SA Science Excellence and Innovation Awards
The South Australian Science Excellence and Innovation Awards recognise the work of inspiring science, technology, engineering, mathematics and medicine (STEMM) leaders and teams working in research and education institutions, schools, industry and the community.
Get help navigating opportunities in research
There are experienced DIIS team members available to support your growth ambitions – whether that be help with workforce development, navigating government and other support programs, connecting with peers and industry leaders, or the adoption of new technologies.
