Israel and technology are quite a disruptive match. Let’s explore the characteristics that contribute to the country’s success in this field
Israel is a place that perplexes visitors. There’s little concern for aesthetics but a strong drive to develop cutting-edge technology. Our Executive Vice President, Carine Bruxel, who recently visited there, stated that it’s normal for Israelis to have more than one answer to the same question. To explain this, they use the Hebrew expression “gam vê gam,” which means “both this and that.” It’s almost a synthesis of the country, simultaneously ugly and beautiful, antiquated and modern, anachronistic and technological. This duality has proven successful. After all, Israel is one of the leading global entrepreneurship hubs. Its success is also attributed to several cultural aspects. Shall we explore four of them?
1. Shared Knowledge
Collaboration is a distinctive feature of Israeli culture. There’s a willingness to share knowledge and experience among entrepreneurs, academics, and investors. Idea exchange is encouraged, propelling innovation through collective learning and the joint development of solutions.
2. Strong Academia
Israeli universities play a significant role in fostering innovation. There’s a strong collaboration between academics and entrepreneurs, facilitating the transfer of knowledge and technology from the academic environment to the industry. This synergy between academia and industry drives the development of innovative solutions and the creation of startups.
3. Mandatory Military Service
In Israel, military service is mandatory for both men and women, which significantly impacts the development of skills and a mindset geared towards innovation. This experience enhances resilience, strategic thinking, and the ability to solve problems under pressure – qualities highly valued in the innovation environment. Furthermore, military service provides young individuals access to advanced technologies and opportunities to acquire practical knowledge that can be applied in the field of innovation.
4. Global Focus
Israel is known for its open and globalized mindset. Israelis have an international perspective from the outset, seeking connections and opportunities beyond national borders. This global mindset allows them to engage in international partnerships, access global markets, and benefit from diverse perspectives and innovative ideas from around the world.
In summary, the unique characteristics present in Israeli culture form a powerful combination that has propelled the country to the forefront of global technological innovation. These aspects not only complement each other but also reinforce one another, creating an environment conducive to the growth of startups, the creation of disruptive solutions, and the capture of international markets. The ability to embrace cultural duality and transform it into a competitive advantage is a testament to the resilience and adaptability of the Israeli people.
