FROM ISRAELI LABS TO LAUNCH AND BEYOND - LESSONS FROM THE INNOVATION NATION

"Israel’s tech ecosystem is the perfect example of what can happen when talent, determination, and innovation come together. It's a hub of ingenuity that the world looks to for inspiration." – Satya Nadella, CEO of Microsoft

There has been no slowing down in my journey of learning from the people who master tech innovation. So when I received an invitation to the second of a recent series of events held by the Tel Aviv University Trust I cleared my diary, again.

On the panel for this occasion was Prof. Yossi Rosenwaks former Dean of the Faculty of Engineering at Tel Aviv University , sharing his knowledge and wisdom from his extensive academic background relevant to entrepreneurship.

We also had the pleasure of being in attendance with?Tali Rosenwaks ?from?Next Gear Ventures, ?which was their debut, sharing a stage. Tali provided a refreshing approach to collaborating with top entrepreneurs and leading corporations. Tali’s work prepares entrepreneurs for market fit, particularly in smart and sustainable mobility innovations. Her work also helps startups significantly de-risk at the early stage.

Also Ryan Hansen Partner at Katten Muchin Rosenman LLP, skilfully moderated the discussion and provided key legal perspectives on how startups can navigate growth beyond the lab, especially on a global scale.

My expectations for this event were understandably high, following the success of the previous Tel Aviv University Trust event - see Building Against the Odds - Insights from an Israeli Serial Entrepreneur

Some discussion takeaways;

• With a positive economic multiplier effect extending beyond Tel Aviv, high tech serves as the engine of Israel's economy.
• Since Israel's self-defensive war, many international higher education institutions have sadly reduced their collaborations with Israeli universities due to concerns about reputational damage.
• Seven of Israel's leading mathematics professors have left the country in the past 12 months.
• While market need is an important factor in product viability, 'authentic demand' is even more critical. The typical 'Israeli way' is to crystallize that demand as quickly as possible.
• "VCs must help the mouse dance with the elephant," emphasizing the need for VCs to help entrepreneurs effectively position their proposals to the industry. Major industry disruptions often face resistance.
• The boundaries between academia and entrepreneurship are becoming less distinct, with an increasing number of Israeli professors participating in tech start-ups.
• Founders should have realistic expectations regarding their exit strategy. Too many expect to exit within six months of product launch for a significant investment. Seeking counsel from experienced entrepreneurs could help develop more realistic projections and timelines.
• Be honest about your strengths and weaknesses, and recognise the necessity of collaborating with experts. Inventors rarely make effective CEOs, despite their own beliefs.

From all the notes I took, one key lesson is that during this season of unprecedented military escalation against Israel, we have no excuse not to prepare for Israel's post-war economic spring.

“Israel is the only country I know where being a 'serial entrepreneur' is considered a badge of honour, not a sign of instability.” – Daniel Kahneman, Nobel Laureate and Behavioural Economist

Thank you to Cara Case , Lilach Sonin Keshales , Daniel Lewin and the Tel Aviv University Trust team for organising.

Article by Jon Simmons - Content Strategist for Investment Houses specialising in investing in Israeli Tech.

#israel #Innovation #Startups #TelAvivUniversity #Entrepreneurship #Sustainability

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