Saar Zacharish

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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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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These are the 15 Israeli growth stage startups that have grown fastest in the past 6 months. All these companies are in the 151 to 500 employee category. The data is based on headcount data that we collect at Aption and is one data point that feeds our company insights and #EquityPooling clustering models Unsurprisingly a lot of cyber, dev ops and deep tech names here #1 daily.dev at 491% growth 🚀 🚀 #2 Port IO at 220% 🚀 #3 Particula at 120% 🔥 #4 Exodigo at 97% #5 Tailor Brands at 60% #6 Cyera at 55% #7 Hello Heart at 51% #8 Anyword at 50% #9 Candex at 39% #10 Pinecone at 39% #11 Paragon at 36% #12 Silverfort at 33% #13 Jones Software at 30% #14 Fullpath at 29% #15 Atera at 27%

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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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2023 was a tough year for Israeli startups. After a few slow quarters, the Israeli startup ecosystem is starting to show signs of recovery and stability. According to the latest tech review for Q1 2024 (by LeumiTech and IVC Data and Insights): - Israeli startups raised $1.74 billion in Q1 2024, just 1% below Q1 2023 - Q1 2024 had more seed rounds than each of the 3 previous quarters in 2023 - Cyber dominated in M&A and large rounds Link to the my post (and the report) in the first comment 👇

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Is the Israeli business community truly ready for high-achieving Haredi professionals to take leadership roles in the tech ecosystem? We are, as Safra-Tech’s mission is to integrate Haredi professionals into the tech ecosystem, with a focus on #entrepreneurship and #startups We're not merely asking how we can slot Haredi workers into low-level roles… we're asking a far more ambitious question: How can we make Haredi society a key stakeholder in the tech ecosystem? It’s not about individual Haredi employees entering the tech world… it’s about a shift in Israeli society’s perspective, becoming key influencers and decision-makers, and having the ability to progress, to secure better jobs, and to make a real impact This is a wake-up call, not just for Haredi society, but also for the wider Israeli business community. As an example, the current #VC scene (which drives tech) in Israel is centralized, steeped in a Tel Aviv culture that brings with it its own mindset and politics To effect real change, we need to alter the landscape itself Aside from giving it lip service, does Israeli society truly want integration? Is the business sector ready for Haredi professionals to become C-level executives, managers, and policy influencers? If the answer is no, then we need to ask ourselves why… Why are we content with Haredi employees occupying low-level roles, but not decision-making positions? To catalyze progress, we need outside investors who understand the need for change, who are willing to provide the financial backing necessary to make this vision a reality. This cannot be left to the same players who have dominated the scene so far. They are too dependent on the status quo, and too concerned with their own well-being… Let's work to make Haredi society an integral part of the tech ecosystem at all levels If you’re interested in joining us in reshaping the tech ecosystem, reach out to me directly to learn more! #startupnation #venturecapital #thoughtleadership

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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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#Israel's #investment landscape in Q1 2024 is growing compared to Q3. Despite the current challenges in Israel, #startups are proving again to be #resilient as they continue to raise money and grow. Israel's decrease in investments is in par with that of the US in 2023. Read more about Israel's investment landscape and about ICI Fund's portfolio companies in ICI Fund's May newsletter: https://lnkd.in/dBnXWYcK #Startupnation will always stay #resilient, #nomatterwhat.

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Join me, Fusion VC, Deloitte Catalyst, and Google for Startups Israel for a special event dedicated to the future of #fintech in Israel! This event will host Venture Capital investors, rising founders, and industry experts to discuss latest industry trends and tech. Registration link in the first comment. See you there!

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Exciting insights from Startup Nation Central’s new Q1/24 report point to unique #investment opportunities! Learn more here >> #innovation #startupnation Israel Innovation Authority רשות החדשנות Israel Innovation Authority

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There is something very special about monday.com, ironSource, Yotpo, Lemonade, Fiverr, Playtika, and the other B2B startups that were founded in the early 2000s. They built the playbook that the current Israeli startup ecosystem stands on. I would love to interview these founders: Eran Zinman & Roy Mann CEO monday.com Tomer Tagrin. CEO Yotpo Tomer Bar-Zeev CEO ironSource Micha Kaufman ceo Fiverr Daniel Schreiber CEO Lemonade Or any founders that built from the early 2000s and still building. If someone can make an intro or ask them directly to come on the Founder StorieZ Podcast I would greatly appreciate it 🙏

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Amazing accomplishments by our portfolio companies Silverfort, Coralogix, and Mixtiles on being ranked in top positions by Dun & Bradstreet’s #Duns100 rankings on the Best Israeli Startups to work for! 🏆🎉 🔒 Silverfort: For the third consecutive year, ranked as the #1 Best Start-Up To Work For over 100 Employees! A testament to their incredible culture of innovation, inclusivity, and growth. 🟢 Coralogix: A powerhouse in AI-powered observability and log analytics, recognized for fostering a dynamic and rewarding workplace where employees thrive. 🖼️ Mixtiles: Revolutionizing interior design while building a culture that’s creative, supportive, and empowering. This recognition highlights the visionary leadership and outstanding teams behind these companies who work tirelessly to build environments where innovation and collaboration flourish. If you’re looking to join a company where culture and growth go hand in hand, explore their open positions via the link below. Here’s to many more milestones ahead for these exceptional companies! 🔍 #BestStartupsToWork #Duns100 #Innovation #Silverfort #Coralogix #Mixtiles #CultivatingGrowth

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"AR computing!" Say goodbye to traditional laptops. An Israeli entrepreneur has innovated a technology that bids farewell to our traditional laptops. Tamir Berliner- founder of Sightful and the innovator behind the Spacetop G1! What is the Spacetop G1? Spatial computer that seamlessly integrates the functionality of a laptop with the capabilities Of Augmented Reality (AR). A 100-inch virtual workspace replaces the need for a physical screen. Spacetop G1 adapts to various environments, whether at home, in the office, or on the go. This represents a step forward in integrating AR technologies with daily tasks. Spatial with AR transforms how we interact with digital content, personally and professionally. The real test will be in its execution. The usability of the AR interface, the battery life, the comfort of AR glasses, etc., are crucial. I believe Sightful has managed to address these practical concerns effectively. And I am awaiting the official release in india. Congrats to Tamir Berliner and the team for their bold move and fantastic innovation. The Spacetop G1 is an evolution in how we think about personal computing. Soorya Narayanan | AppLogiQ #applogiq #innovation #entrepreneur #techentrepreneur #augmentedreality #spatialcomputing #management #startups

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In this episode, we speak with Shmuel Mizrachi Ginat. He’s an entrepreneur and venture capital investor with deep experience in business development, capital raising, investments, and M&As. Shmuel has helped raise close to 100 million USD for over 80 startups and has personally invested in 17 Israeli startups. He’s the founder of Crowdinnio, a holding company with ventures in P2P lending, secondary markets, crowdfunding, and more. He also founded EvE, an investment banking firm specializing in M&As, guiding startups through capital growth and regulatory challenges. We discuss: - The challenges of investing in early-stage startups and the importance of diversifying investments - How Shmuel’s belief that his generation onwards will live at least till 100 impacts his investment strategy  - The importance of chemistry between co-founders and the need for a strong team to support each other - Growing a network while being an outsider in a new market - And much more! We hope you enjoy your listen! Listen on your default podcast app: https://lnkd.in/dKKvEnSF We’re excited to collaborate with the Israeli website CTech by Calcalist, owned by Calcalist כלכליסט – Israel’s leading business newspaper. CTech is the gateway of Israeli high-tech to the tech world and vice versa. If you’re not already a regular reader, we strongly recommend you check it out and stay up to date on all high-impact stories from the Israeli tech scene. Zooming out, if you like listening to this podcast, make sure to subscribe so you don’t miss new conversations with peak performers, serving as a reminder we can all tap into the best versions of ourselves. You’re also welcome to follow Ronen and Noa on Linkedin: Ronen Menipaz Noa Eshed🎗️ And if we may ask for a favor – please leave us a review on your native podcast app. #reallifesuperpowers #entrepreneurship #podcast #leadership

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CASE STORY - PART II ------- We are on with the second part of story about our implementation to Tel Aviv Medical Center - T.A.M.C Ltd. This time it's more detailed, and tells about how we moved this medical center from 6 systems to one. All-in-one is one of the basic concepts of our software. We really thing, that using multiple solutions (sometimes over 30) only make your clinic way less efficient. If you have a software mess in your medical center or chain of clinics - that one is for you 😊 https://lnkd.in/eQM-tNK8

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Founders’ Corner: The Power of Focus, Hiring for Hunger, and Tackling Problems Early Meet Israel Krush co-founder and CEO of Hyro, a digital health SaaS company R-Squared Ventures is proud to be an investor in. Hyro bridges gaps between patient expectations and workforce capacity with AI-powered digital assistants, automating tasks like appointment management and prescription refills. To date, Hyro has raised $50 million and partnered with some of the largest health networks in the US. I met with Israel in NYC recently and asked him to share insights from his journey as a founder. The power of focus. Reflecting on the early days, Israel shared, “We started by serving multiple industries. I wish we’d focused on one customer segment instead of trying to build a ‘holistic platform.’ By narrowing our focus, we could deeply understand one segment, reach product-market fit faster, and drive revenue growth.” Hiring for hunger. Israel prioritized “hungry” talent. “Especially early on, hunger beats experience. We’ve had people grow with Hyro all the way to C-level. It’s about finding agile, self-driven team members who can adapt and thrive.” Addressing small problems early. One key lesson: don’t ignore recurring issues, no matter how small. “If a problem keeps repeating itself, tackle it before it grows, because it will. This includes acting quickly on culture or skill misfits, and having tough conversations around product and GTM direction.” Advice for first-time founders. Connecting with founders who’ve faced similar challenges: “Seek advice from experienced founders who genuinely want to help, not those looking for financial gain. Their perspective can help you avoid pitfalls.” Choosing investment partners you connect with deeply. Israel stresses the importance of a personal connection: “Winning or losing is up to you and your team, but choose investors you’d want by your side during the lows. You need someone you trust for genuine feedback through tough times. That’s your right partner.” To Israel and the Hyro team, thankful to be part of your journey. Your determination, drive and execution are truly motivating. Glad you moved to NYC to tackle your market from within, and excited to see Hyro’s continued trajectory in transforming digital health! #foundertips #startup #vc #venturecapital #entrepreneur #founder

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"Get the best team and run as fast as you can" 🏃‍♂️💨 In the venture capital landscape, the path from strategic insights to impactful investments is paved with determination and a deep understanding of tech's potential. On a recent episode of Tech Salescraft, Eyal Redler, Co-Founder and Managing Partner of The Garage, shares the compelling journey of this unique venture firm. From decades of military intelligence experience to the inception of a venture platform, explore how The Garage navigates the fintech and enterprise tech sectors with unmatched expertise. Dive into our latest blog for an in-depth look at how The Garage leverages its founders' military precision and vast network to fuel the growth of promising startups.👇 https://lnkd.in/e9KZVx_2 #HiringStratergies #TechSalesRecruitment #TechSalescraft #TechSales #TechSalesBlog

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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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We partnered with Unistream - יוניסטרים to train Israel's future tech leaders at Migdal Group this week! We helped young, aspiring entrepreneurs learn how to present a #startup to potential investors. They learned about financial data, Q&A techniques, and other skills to foster future growth, #innovation and economic prosperity in Israel. #startups #Insurance #insurtech Moran Avnon, Adi Meidan

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