Mike Burfield

Mike Burfield has spent more than three decades helping innovators transform technical breakthroughs into successful commercial outcomes. Widely regarded as one of Australia's most experienced R&D incentive specialists, Mike's perspective is shaped not only by advising innovative businesses, but by creating them himself. Throughout his career, he has founded, scaled and exited technology companies, developed intellectual property across engineering, software and food technology sectors, and licensed patented technologies to multinational organisations.

Innovation changes the world only when it reaches the market. The challenge isn't just creating new ideas, it's creating the pathways that allow them to succeed.

Mike's experience as an entrepreneur, inventor and company builder gives him a unique understanding of the challenges innovators face as they move from technical development to commercial growth. He has worked extensively with Australian technology companies, international investors and foreign-owned subsidiaries seeking to establish and expand R&D activities in Australia. His practical understanding of commercialisation, investment and governance allows him to provide advice that goes beyond compliance and focuses on long-term business success.

As Partner and CEO of RDI Partners, Mike works with some of Australia's most innovative companies and many of the world's leading biotechnology and MedTech businesses. He is recognised for helping organisations navigate the intersection of innovation, investment, regulation and growth, providing strategic guidance that enables clients to capture value from their R&D while building sustainable businesses.

Expertise

• Commercialisation strategy: Helping innovators translate technical achievement into commercially viable products, services and businesses.
• International R&D investment: Supporting foreign-owned organisations establishing and scaling Australian R&D operations.
• R&D incentive leadership: Advising businesses on optimising the strategic value of Australia's innovation ecosystem.