Australia and Thailand Launch Food Innovation Exchange

Food innovators in Australia and Thailand just got a powerful new bridge to turn their sustainability ideas into reality.

Australia's national science agency CSIRO has launched the Thailand Australia Venture Exchange Program, bringing together startups and small businesses from both countries to collaborate on breakthrough food and agriculture technologies. The 12-week program officially opens applications this month, with the first cohort launching after selections close on July 31, 2026.

Up to 15 companies will join the inaugural round, split evenly between the two nations. They'll tackle some of the biggest challenges facing our food system, from sustainable farming practices to alternative proteins and future food production methods.

Participants get more than just networking opportunities. The program includes funded travel to both countries during two intensive market immersion weeks, giving entrepreneurs firsthand experience in potential new markets. They'll also receive personalized coaching, direct access to research facilities and scientific expertise, and connections to investors and customers in both regions.

CSIRO is partnering with Thailand's Food Innopolis and the Research University Network to deliver the program. Together, these organizations bring decades of scientific research, innovation infrastructure, and academic excellence to support participating companies.

"We're creating clear pathways for Australian and Thai agrifood innovators to access research facilities, scientific expertise and real market opportunities," said Amelia Fyfield, CSIRO's director for Southeast Asia. The goal is accelerating sustainable food industry development across the entire region.

The Ripple Effect

This exchange builds on lessons learned from a similar CSIRO program in Singapore that helped businesses build international partnerships and improve their readiness for investment. Now those success stories are scaling across Southeast Asia.

The collaboration strengthens ties between researchers, industry leaders, and investors in both countries. For Thai startups affiliated with the Research University Network, it opens doors to Australian markets and scientific resources. For Australian innovators, it provides entry into Southeast Asia's rapidly growing food sector.

Dr. Akeanong Jangbua, director of Food Innopolis, emphasized how the partnership leverages each organization's strengths to support startups with global ambitions. Additional program rounds are already planned for 2027, signaling long-term commitment to regional food innovation.

The program targets companies working across the entire agrifood value chain, from farm to fork. Whether developing new aquaculture techniques, creating plant-based proteins, or building smarter agriculture systems, qualifying startups can apply for this funded opportunity to expand internationally while solving real sustainability challenges.