Yaron Golgher

East Jerusalem based medtech accelerator JINNOVATE launches with 14 Arab-Israeli led portfolio companies https://lnkd.in/d35gczUz Sheba Medical Center, Tel Hashomer Shaare Zedek Medical Center, Jerusalem Techlinic Mahmoud Khweis Israel Innovation Authority רשות החדשנות USAID ARC Innovation Takwin VC Ezadeen Alsaad Jafar Mahfouz Muawyah Akash ISRAEL21c — Good News From Israel

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Tel-aviv has improved its position among the top startup ecosystems worldwide according to Startup Genome's 2024 report (https://lnkd.in/dN3aUa_h). What a powerful evidence of Israeli startup and innovation environment's resilience and the unshaken trust of the global investor community. The Israeli high-tech sector remains to be the engine of the nation’s economy, accounting for 18% of GDP, 48% of exports, and 11% of workforce. At Tachles VC we are proud we can back the next generation of cyber, cloud and infrastructure AI Israeli-born start-ups. Karel Tušek, Sivan Kanev, Boris Chovnik, Robin Bienfait

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IVC Data and Insights report on the Israeli venture market for Q1-Q3 2024 reveals: - $7.4 billion invested in Israeli startups, surpassing the entire 2023 total of $6.9 billion. - $13 billion generated from exits, a 26% increase from 2023's $10.4 billion. - 23% surge in foreign investments year-over-year. - 67% of capital sourced from global investors, with 33% from Israeli funds. - $2.7 billion secured by early-stage startups, the second-highest figure in Israeli startup ecosystem history (after 2022's record). These figures demonstrate investors' confidence in the long-term sustainability of the Israeli startup ecosystem. Trust received, challenge accepted. We're building the future, brick by brick.

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Very interesting report of Israel's AI ecosystem by F2 Venture Capital, Google Cloud and Deloitte. 🔍 On a high level: - The AI startup ecosystem in Israel is booming, with over 2,150 active AI companies, representing ~30% of the local tech sector. - Startups leveraging AI attracted over 60% of all capital raised in 2023. - The country ranks 3rd globally in private AI investment, demonstrating its strong position in the global AI market. 💡 Key takeaways from the report: - Vertical AI is a stronghold. It attracts the largest share of private funding, with Life Sciences, Healthcare and Fintech (banking, financial services and insuretech) leading the charge. Israel's deep domain expertise in these sectors positions it as a potential global leader. - Autonomous Enterprise (Horizontal AI) shows promise. Cybersecurity is a particular strength, capturing 56% of the segment's funding However, the development of multi-modal, end-to-end solutions and AI agents presents further opportunities for cross-industry applications. - AI & Data Ops is a key area for growth. Israel's strong talent pool and focus on enhancing existing infrastructure make it well-suited to address the growing demand for cloud-based AI Ops platforms and efficient data management solutions. There are also plenty of challenges: securing and nurturing AI talent, sustaining investment and navigating the global AI landscape/competition. Link to the report in the first comment 🔗

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In Q3 2024, Israel's tech ecosystem saw a significant surge in mergers and acquisitions (M&A), driven by high-value transactions despite global and regional challenges. Here's a summary of the key trends and activities: 1. **Increase in M&A Value**: M&A activity in Israel rose by 40% year-over-year, reaching $12 billion in total exits by Q3 2024. This reflects global and domestic confidence in Israel's innovation capabilities, particularly in sectors like AI, cybersecurity, and healthcare【8】【9】. 2. **Notable Transactions**:   - **Blackstone** acquired Priority Software for $800 million, demonstrating the global appeal of Israeli enterprise software.   - **Nvidia** purchased Run:AI for $700 million, highlighting the strategic importance of AI startups.   - **Johnson & Johnson** expanded its healthcare offerings with the $600 million acquisition of V-Wave, a medical device innovator【10】. 3. **Shift in Deal Dynamics**: Although fewer deals were made compared to 2023, the median deal size increased dramatically, showcasing a focus on high-value acquisitions. The median size rose to $300 million, reflecting substantial global investment interest【10】. 4. **Sectoral Highlights**: AI, enterprise software, and health tech led the way in M&A activity, underscoring their growth potential and strategic importance【8】【10】. 5. **Investor Trends**:   - North American firms dominated acquisitions, while domestic Israeli companies also increased their role as acquirers, signaling growing local consolidation.   - European participation remained steady, indicating diverse international interest in Israeli tech【10】. These trends reinforce Israel's status as a global innovation hub, attracting significant investments despite external pressures. For a deeper dive, you can explore detailed insights from F2 Venture Capital, Startup Nation Central, and Crunchbase【8】【9】【10】.

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"If we analyze the events of October 7th, we can see how analysis and overreliance on technology can create a "fog" obscuring financial risks.” In her recent paper, Dr. Keren Bar-Hava, head of the Accounting Department at the Hebrew University Business School, argues that professional auditors, like informed and accurate intelligence forces, are essential for companies' survival warning signs. "The paper that I've written compares reported intelligence failures with auditors ignoring 'red flags' in company auditing processes. The importance of audit regulations increases in light of catastrophic events which emphasizes their critical role, the need to look at the big picture, and the holistic integration of critical thinking to ensure that auditors, along with the board of directors, prevent financial disasters." Dr. Bar-Hava proposes four work models derived from the events of October 7th that can help mitigate risks: • Identifying potential risks – flawed risk assessment relying heavily on technologies may provide a false perception of the company's economic situation. • Communication barriers – the attack on October 7th highlighted the importance of information sharing among different military units; similarly, effective communication between board members and the audit committee is necessary to identify and address control weaknesses. • Audit planning – potential flaws exist in internal control systems that do not adjust adequately to the reality; continuous evaluation and improvement are necessary to prevent failures. • Organizations must be open to and continually improve their control systems by avoiding organizational complacency and acting proactively for change – boards should be prepared to challenge the status quo and embrace continuous improvements in oversight. Dr. Bar-Hava's article demonstrates that auditing is an asset, not a liability! It significantly contributes to understanding and mitigating financial risks, and enables strong internal control systems, capable of preventing catastrophic outcomes. Link to article: https://lnkd.in/djKg-iMy

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We in the Israel Innovation Authority רשות החדשנות are dedicated to ensuring that the Israeli innovation ecosystem makes a significant global impact. Our initial step is to pilot the product, allowing the Israeli companies to gain valuable insights and progress effectively. Here is the consolidated information in one click: You can share this post with startups you think will benefit and grow from it.  Child development pilot with Israeli healthcare providers : https://lnkd.in/dB3bfk3Q    Companies offering innovative solutions for Israel's national security organizations    https://lnkd.in/ddHqtSjY    Israeli startups providing solutions for the future of mobility and last-mile delivery with the Israeli Ministery of Transportation     https://lnkd.in/dKv83Drc    For companies ready to take off and soar, see this call for submission for international collaboration.  https://lnkd.in/ds5Uvycc  Tzlil Neeman Renassia

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As we close out 2024, we’re reflecting on a year that pushed Israeli tech to its limits—and once again, we rose to the challenge. At F2, our portfolio companies hit major milestones, with several securing significant growth rounds (shoutout to Faye, Astrix Security and justt). We also welcomed a wave of new founders who are applying AI to tackle untapped opportunities in overlooked markets. 2025 will be all about focus. For our founders, that means honing go-to-market strategies — doubling down on what works and cutting what doesn’t. For the founders we’re looking to back, it’s about breaking through the noise, outpacing incumbents and bringing bold vision to underserved markets. We're more optimistic than ever and if this is what you’re looking to build, let’s talk :) Check out our full 2024 recap here: https://lnkd.in/d-qUZGT3 F2 Venture Capital

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Is it shopping season for Israeli technology? The recent surge in M&A activity in Israel is the most significant sign of hope and optimism I’ve seen since October 7th. It demonstrates the potential of Israeli tech and the faith placed in it by top global companies. When technology leaders choose to further expand into Israel and acquire local teams, you know financial outlooks are positive. In cybersecurity - often the poster-child of Israeli tech - we’ve seen five acquisitions in quick succession totaling more than $1Bn. Flow Security by CrowdStrike (~$200M), Avalor Security, a Zscaler Company ($350M), Gem Security (acquired by Wiz) ($350M), Silk Security by Armis ($150M) and Entitle by BeyondTrust (~150M). All are led by exceptional individuals, well done! Perhaps more telling is the emerging AI industry. Last week NVIDIA announced its acquisition of two companies for a combined value of $1Bn. Congratulations RunAI ($700M) and Deci AI ($300M). Mainstream media is so focused on the voices of a racist minority calling for boycotts and divestments that they fail to capture actual news. Antisemites might yell the loudest, but the actions of multinational corporations speak louder than words. I am optimistic about the future. Are you?

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Change is at the heart of our business.   For 25 years, throughout innovation waves and economic cycles, Viola Ventures stayed committed to its vision of building global category leaders out of Israel.   In line with this, we continue to implement strategic plans to ensure continuity and adapt to the challenges and opportunities in the next 25 years.   Today we announce that Viola Ventures' next fund (the seventh) will be led by GPs Zvika Orron and Omry Ben David, together with Viola co-founder Shlomo Dovrat, who will continue as a General Partner in the seventh fund to complete the transition.   More on this at CTech by Calcalist piece below

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I was happy to share my thoughts on what 2025 has in store for Israeli tech and venture, published on Calcalist כלכליסט today. If I could summarise 2024 in one word, it would indeed be "Resilience". And for the record, despite the headline, I do believe that the new administration in the US is generally good news for tech and venture, including Israeli startups. I've also mentioned 3 investments we made which are still in stealth... Link to the article in the first comment 👇

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NextLeap Ventures 2024 Year in Review: Building Tomorrow's Innovation Today   As we close another remarkable year at Next Leap Ventures, I'm energized by the transformative progress in the Israeli high-tech ecosystem. 2024 saw unprecedented advances in AI, climate tech, mobility, infrastructure and digital health - areas where early-stage investments are catalyzing real-world impact. Investments and exits in Israel grew substantially compared to the previous year, despite the geopolitical challenges we are facing.  Israel continues to be a hotbed of innovation and entrepreneurship, attracting many investors who are looking for great financial returns.   Despite market volatility and the difficult situation in Israel, we maintained the mantra of “Israeli tech delivers, no matter what” as well as our thesis-driven approach: * Backing exceptional founders who combine technical excellence with clear paths to scalable impact, leveraging deep technology for a sustainable strategic advantage. * Providing intimate and extensive support and guidance to our portfolio companies, helping them grow their business and increase their valuation. Our portfolio companies have shown remarkable resilience, with several achieving significant milestones in customer acquisition, revenue growth, and technological breakthroughs.   Key highlights of our achievements this year: * Our portfolio companies raised additional funds, and we participated in 14 follow-on rounds * Our investor community expanded, as we merged with the Neome Women Investors * Our AI/ML portfolio companies have developed solutions now used by Fortune 500 enterprises * Our climate tech investments are driving measurable carbon reduction across industries * Our digital health startups are expanding healthcare access through innovative platforms * Our portfolio companies were selected for the Innovation Dream team of the Peres Center for Peace and Innovation * Our bio-convergence companies received funding from top-tier VC from the Silicon Valley   Looking ahead to 2025, we remain committed to our core mission: partnering with visionary entrepreneurs who are building disruptive companies, addressing global challenges.   To our founders, limited partners, co-investors, and the broader startup community - thank you for your partnership. Your trust and collaboration make our work meaningful and impactful.   Here's to another year of turning bold visions into reality. Wishing everyone a prosperous and innovative 2025. On a personal note - the Israeli hostages are in our hearts and minds and we wish for their safe return home. We look forward to the end of the war and the growth and prosperity that would follow.   Connect with us at [email protected] to explore how we can support your entrepreneurial journey or give you access to deep tech investments in Israel.   NextLeap Ventures Yoav Hochberg Ronny Korner Ido Lapidot Yosi Govezensky Dan Cohen Ram Caspi Richard Schank Ofri M. Oded Agam

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I was recently included in the list of the 1,000 most active angel investors in Israel https://lnkd.in/erPY8utD (I invest in Israel, the US, and Europe) The authors (Joey Faur and Oz Hassine from Flashpoint Venture Capital) gave some great tips on reaching out to angel investors. Since the article is in Hebrew, I am providing the translation below for your convenience. ''When crafting your pitch, keep the message short and focused, and make sure to include several key elements: 1. Opening: Briefly introduce yourself and your startup. 2. Value Proposition: Highlight what sets your startup apart and why it’s an excellent investment opportunity. 3. Achievements: Emphasize significant accomplishments, such as winning competitions or participating in accelerators. 4. Meeting Request: Clearly state your intention to discuss a potential investment. 5. Attachments: Include relevant materials, like an investor pitch deck, but avoid overloading with unnecessary information. 6. It's important to maintain conciseness—a message that’s too long won’t get read. When an angel investor shows interest, you need to be fully prepared for the meeting. Have a deep understanding of all the details related to your idea—financial data, forecasts, key performance indicators, competitors, and anticipated challenges. Your pitch should focus on the investor’s areas of interest and address potential questions even before the angel asks them. Even if you don’t secure an immediate investment, continue to nurture the relationship with the angel investor you met. Regular updates on your startup’s progress can keep the door open for future investment opportunities. Avoid Common Mistakes Now, let’s discuss two common mistakes you should avoid: 1. Failing to Do Research: Research investors before reaching out to prevent unnecessary misunderstandings. 2. Understanding Angel Risks: Acknowledge the risks angels face, such as dilution of equity and later-stage investments. Showing angels that you understand their perspective can increase their trust in your ability to make good use of their money.'' ---- Interested in investing in VCs & startups? let's connect.

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🚀10 Israeli Startups Enter Deloitte Accelerator Program 🚀 We are thrilled to share that 10 pioneering Israeli startups have been selected to join the prestigious Deloitte Accelerator Program! These startups are set to drive innovation and transform industries with their cutting-edge solutions. 🌟 Congratulations to the following groundbreaking companies: Aidoc BeeHero BlueGreen Water Technologies Clarifruit Compira Labs Jifiti MDClone Namogoo Run:ai Upstream Security Each of these startups is leading the charge in their respective fields, from #healthcare and #agriculture to #cybersecurity and #AI. Their inclusion in the Deloitte Accelerator Program highlights #Israel's role as a global leader in #technological #innovation. At CWS Israel, we are committed to supporting and fostering such innovative initiatives that contribute to the growth and prosperity of our nation. We believe in the power of #technology to create positive change and are excited to see the impact these startups will make. Let's celebrate this achievement and continue to support #Israeli innovation! #Innovation #IsraeliStartups #DeloitteAccelerator #TechLeaders #CWSIsrael #SupportInnovation Raz Chorev 🇮🇱🇦🇺🎗️Yulia Lavie 🇮🇱🇦🇺 Jackline K. Photo by Joshua Sortino on Unsplash

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Opinion Broadening horizons: Why Israeli startups should look beyond the US for investment opportunities "Israeli startups must adapt to stay competitive. By embracing opportunities in Europe and other regions, startups can unlock new growth potential, diversify their resources, and create lasting partnerships that strengthen their foundations for success," writes Adina Krausz, CEO and founder of InnoSource Ventures. Adina Krausz For years, the prevailing wisdom for Israeli startups has been to prioritize the United States as the ultimate destination for securing funding. While the U.S. remains a leader in venture capital and advanced tech ecosystems, relying solely on this market may limit opportunities. https://lnkd.in/d9BaMHsw

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Fast-Track Funding Program Israeli Tech Companies Program's Description As a quick response to the challenges tech companies are facing, as a result of the “Iron Swords” war, the Israel Innovation Authority is offering a “Fast Track” funding program to support technological companies and projects. Goal of the incentive program This funding program operates through the Innovation Authority’s R&D fund and is designed for innovative Israeli tech companies with a short runway (up to 6 months) that are in the process of raising capital. Those companies that experience challenges in raising capital due to the situation and in need of bridge funding, are the target of this program. Who is the incentive program for? The fast track is designed for Israeli companies who are in the midst of development/early sales with substantial assets (technologies, unique team, consumers etc). What do you get? The Innovation Authority will offer up to 7.5 million NIS grants under this program, 50% of which will be matched by existing or new investors. https://lnkd.in/evWas9nr

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This episode with Yotam Segev CEO Cyera is 🔥🔥🔥 A quick highlight of the many topics we discussed Link to the full episode in the comments.

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Israeli AI Drug Discovery Startup Pepticom Ltd. raises $6.6m https://lnkd.in/dvu2akKc Immanuel Lerner, Ph.D. Amit Michaeli Maayan Elias Robicsek Gideon Bar Shaul Lerner Guila Assayag Dikla Haham Alexandra Vardi Victoria Kozokaro Michal Saam Rachel Hamburger Galia Kut Eyal Agmoni Chartered Group Eizaburo Miyashita

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3 main challenges that startups face: 1. Laying the groundwork for expansion into the American market. 2. Establishing a robust sales framework. 3. Financing, financing, financing. Ten startups who participated in the Launchpad program (cycle 7!) will receive training and mentoring on these points from Deloitte teams in Israel and the USA. Stay tuned for the names of the companies (you'll hear more about them soon) - found in the links we've shared here: Deloitte Launchpad Program #DeloitteLaunchpad #StartUp #BusinessGrowth #AmericanMarket #Financing

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