The results of KPMG’s 2015 CEO Outlook Survey showed that local CEOs were less concerned about innovation and technology than their overseas counterparts.

KPMG Australia chairman Peter Nash said in the case of resources companies, peak investment had passed and the focus was now on cost-cutting and productivity, which is where innovation could play a part.

Earlier this year, KPMG launched the Energise program, a technology accelerator for the energy and natural resources sector which allows start-up technology companies to work with some of Australia’s largest mining and engineering firms.

Eight start-ups were selected from 60 applicants and have been given the opportunity to establish and present their solutions to problems currently faced within the industry over a 12-week program based in Perth.

“It provides avenues these start-ups have never had before,” Nash said.

Among the companies that are participating are South32, Atlas Iron, BHP Billiton, MACA and Iluka Resources.

“They’re learning that the best innovation takes place outside the organisation,” Nash said.

The program has seven weeks to go with start-ups to pitch their ideas to resources companies and potential financiers.