Aaron Gefen’s Post

🚀 The Resilience and Growth of Israel's Tech Ecosystem in 2024: You didn't expect that! As the year draws to a close, I believe it's essential for all investors to take time for reflection and learning. In 2024, despite ongoing geopolitical challenges and reserve duties, the Israeli tech ecosystem has proven its remarkable resilience and capacity for innovation. The figures speak for themselves, let's see the numbers: 🔹 Funding Rebound: Israel’s tech sector raised an impressive $2.43 billion in Q3 2024 across 99 rounds, marking a 32% increase from the same period last year. This resurgence reflects the strength and adaptability of Israeli startups, even in turbulent times. 🔹 Cybersecurity Dominance: Cybersecurity continues to lead the charge in Israel’s tech landscape, with 52% of private funding directed toward this vital sector. The landmark $1 billion round raised by Wiz highlights its global significance. Moreover, M&A activity in cybersecurity has reached $1.5 billion, underscoring the sector's growing impact. 🔹 Global Investor Confidence: International investors are more committed than ever to Israel’s innovation ecosystem, with 93% of all funding in H1 2024 coming from global backers — the highest in seven years. In addition, renowned investors are reopening offices locally and continuing to fuel growth. The momentum is clear: Israeli startups are not just surviving; they are thriving! As we look to the future, the resilience of the tech community, the strength of global partnerships, and the ingenuity of entrepreneurs provide a hopeful outlook for continued growth and global leadership. Let's keep the momentum going. The best is yet to come. ✨ #IsraelTech #VentureCapital #GlobalInvestors #Innovation #TechResilience #HopeForTheFuture Mobilion Ventures

  Israeli Tech Update: Q1 2024 Highlights from Startup Nation Central Some highlights (summary – Israeli Tech Delivers #nomatterwhat Private Funding Surges: 9% increase to $1.8B across 114 rounds Larger average round size signifies market stability Ecosystem Parity with US: Short & medium-term outlook aligns with US trends M&A Boom: $2B in acquisitions, 4 deals over $200M each Most active quarter since Q1 2022 Investor Preferences: Focus on quality & scalability with fewer but larger rounds Six mega-rounds totalling $716M Cybersecurity Takes Center Stage: 4 of 6 mega-rounds, $846M funding Key driver of ecosystem funding & top exits Sectorial Dynamics: Cybersecurity peaks, Climate & Agrifood tech rebound Health tech, Fintech & Enterprise IT face reductions Global Context: VC investments globally impacted by challenges Resilient Israeli tech scene amidst complexities #IsraeliTech #Investment #Resilience #TechUpdate     https://lnkd.in/dV8qNbcg

The entrepreneurial ecosystem in the Gulf states is thriving. Across various sectors, everyone wants a share of the pie—even those who once wouldn’t have considered this region. Governments across the Gulf are now embracing a tech revolution, welcoming foreign investors and companies with open arms. In today’s long read, Harveen Ahluwalia writes about the long-overdue awakening of the Middle East’s tech startup ecosystem. https://lnkd.in/d9F6vtEH

Did you know? Israeli R&D and Innovation is in the very core of >500 multinationals from #USA, #India, #China, #Germany, #France, #Japan, #Taiwan, #Switzerland, #Singapore, #Netherlands, #Finland, #SouthKorea, #UK, #Czechia, #Canada and more Name a global leader, most likely they're relying on 🇮🇱 talent to remain in the cutting edge of innovation --> * Intel Corporation * NVIDIA * Google * Apple * Intuit * 3M * Amazon * Mercedes-Benz AG * Applied Materials * Bosch * Unilever * Snowflake * Broadcom * Citi * Cisco * Dell Technologies * eBay * Dropbox * GE * IBM * John Deere * Johnson & Johnson * Microsoft * Oracle * Nestlé * PayPal * Philips * SAP * Qualcomm * Samsung Electronics * Tata Group * Siemens * Mitsubishi Corporation * Salesforce * Mastercard * Thales * Honda * Visa * Schneider Electric * ..... Adversities makes Israeli technology and innovation even stronger. Recognized by global giants.

"Israeli Tech Keeps Moving Forward: Investors Maintain Confidence Despite Challenges" A recent survey conducted by the Startup Snapshot platform among investors, both domestic and international, reveals a strong belief in Israeli technology, with approximately 85% of them indicating no plans to slow down their investments in Israel in 2024. Despite the ongoing conflict and the challenging state of the Israeli tech sector, this data showcases unwavering confidence among investors. "Despite the crisis, investors have witnessed how entrepreneurs cope with adversity and the resilience of the Israeli ecosystem, which has fostered trust in Israel's resilience," states the report. Encouragingly, nearly 49% of respondents express intentions to increase their investments in Israel in 2024 compared to the previous year. Furthermore, investors recognize the adaptability and innovation of the next generation of founders, who continue to thrive amidst uncertainty. Great and existing news, looking forward! #nomatterwhat #israelinnovation #innovation #startupecosystem #startupnation Source: In the first comment

Big Tech Bets Big on Israel's Future 🇮🇱 I’m happy to have joined TechShield. It’s a great initiative from Sarona Ventures (thanks for reaching out Lana Shapiro and Toot Shani). Why? Israel's tech scene is thriving and poised for continued growth in 2024. 🇮🇱 Read more in the link below. 👇 #IsraeliTechDelivers #NoMatterWhat #TechShield #SaronaVentures #alwaysbelearning #sharingknowledge #founders #investors #firstdegree

Many things were written already about investments in Israel during time of war, but a new research reveal interesting data about the #investors actions. Despite the prevailing conflict, investor confidence in Israeli tech remains robust. Only 14% of respondents indicated they will decrease investment volume in 2024 compared to the previous year, signaling a steadfast commitment to the Israeli tech ecosystem. Check this new research by Startup Snapshot "Startup Nation in Times of Conflict: The Investor Perspective". The report also highlights effects of the Moody's decision on investors, as well as their proposed risk mitigation strategies. Link for the full report is in the 1st link below. #startupnation #investmentopportunity Yael Benjamin

Big Tech Bets Big on Israel's Future 🇮🇱 Here's why investors should too: • 88% of multinationals in Israel plan to expand their operations, showing strong confidence in the ecosystem's future. • Nearly 70% expect M&A activity, highlighting the industry's dynamism and potential for high returns. • 79% believe Israeli tech is resilient, demonstrating its ability to weather challenges. • 87% of non-Israeli corporations with R&D teams or innovation centers in Israel plan to expand or maintain their presence in Israel. These figures paint a clear picture: Israel's tech scene is thriving and poised for continued growth in 2024. 🇮🇱 -- "..Investors believe in Israel's future, but they're unsure. That's why we created TechShield, a Reverse Fund that selects high-performing VC-backed startups first, then raises the capital.." TechShield offers investors: • Reduced risk and increased transparency. • Exposure to Israeli top VC-backed startups. • Access to Sarona Ventures' extensive network and expertise. Ready to explore the potential? Learn more about TechShield's portfolio and schedule a call with our Investor Relations team: https://bit.ly/TechShield #IsraeliTechDelivers #NoMatterWhat #TechShield #SaronaVentures *Based on Startup Nation Central's annual report for 2023

Israeli Tech Shows Resilience Amidst Challenges Despite ongoing regional tensions, Israeli startups and tech firms have demonstrated remarkable resilience in Q3 2024. While investment slowed 20% compared to Q2, it's up an impressive 40% year-over-year. Some key highlights: • $2.43 billion raised in Q3, bringing the 2024 total to $7.22 billion - a 32% increase from last year • Six deals over $100 million, including a $1 billion investment in AI startup Safe Superintelligence • Foreign investor presence remains strong, with only a slight decline compared to 2023 This data underscores the enduring strength and innovation of Israel's tech ecosystem. Even in uncertain times, Israeli entrepreneurs continue to attract global investment and drive economic growth. As we reflect on recent challenges, these numbers remind us of the resilience, determination and world-class talent that make Israeli tech a powerhouse on the global stage. Together we will illuminate the world, against all those who darken it! Am Israel Chai! #IsraeliTech #Resilience #Innovation #Victory

Joe Hayon, Co-Founder and President of Inspira Technologies, shares how he believes that despite the challenges posed by the October 7th attack and the ongoing conflict, Israeli startups remain poised as key drivers of the nation and the country’s future growth. “We will fight to protect our homeland and do everything possible to return our hostages”. For those who doubt us or choose to challenge us, remember this: “We never give up!”. Israelis as a nation and as a startup ecosystem are characterized by resilience and persistence. Historical challenges have fostered a culture of innovation and problem-solving. Our startups continue developing cutting-edge technologies even amid adversity. Israeli startups operate in high-priority sectors such as cybersecurity, defense technology, and healthcare. These sectors are critical for national security and promoting peace and global stability. The demand for advanced solutions remains strong, providing growth opportunities. The secret to success is resilience, persistence, and a culture of never giving up. Failure is a milestone to success. As a startup nation, we are determined to overcome market challenges and bring the hostages home. For more in-depth insights, read Joe Hayon's full op-ed, written immediately after the events of October 7th: https://lnkd.in/dX6tpnn8