Israel's innovation leadership spans its 76-year history — and beyond

Avi Hasson
·4 min read
US and Israeli flags fill the field at Statler Park in Boston, Massachusetts, on Oct. 18, 2023. President Joe Biden delivered unequivocal US backing for Israel in person on Wednesday, supporting his ally's stance that Palestinian militants were behind a deadly rocket strike on a Gaza hospital that has inflamed anger across the Middle East and beyond.

Throughout Israel’s dynamic 76-year history, harsh reality has fostered a unique national mindset and culture of innovation. It has seen Israel transform coastal dunes into cities, deserts into fertile farmland and rudimentary industries into one of the most sophisticated and successful innovation-driven economies. At the heart of the state’s national identity is a spirit where urgency and bounce-back-ability are not just virtues, but existential necessities, fueled by an imperative to act. Now more than ever, in the face of conflict and uncertainty, an unyielding spirit and relentless energy are driving creativity and inventiveness — as evidenced by the continued resilience and robust performance of our tech ecosystem.

We know that the world’s most complex challenges know no borders and that Israel’s unique approach to innovation carries with it the potential to mitigate their effects. In every sector and industry, Israeli tech’s achievements are setting new standards and raising the bar on scalable, impactful innovation. The key to our success has been a bold and determined approach that we call impatient innovation.

These Israeli innovations have global impact

Here are five leading Israeli innovations making their impact globally:

  • Mobileye's technology is instrumental in reducing vehicle collisions, thereby decreasing traffic-related injuries and fatalities. This is particularly impactful in regions with high rates of traffic accidents. By improving road safety, Mobileye not only saves lives but also contributes to the reduction of healthcare costs associated with traffic accidents. Its technology is used by automotive manufacturers worldwide, including General Motors, BMW, Audi, and Ford, enhancing vehicle safety through advanced collision avoidance systems.

  • TytoCare is revolutionizing virtual healthcare with its innovative Home Smart Clinic, an FDA-cleared device that enables remote physical exams, effectively replicating in-clinic visits. Supported by AI-powered guidance and diagnostic tools, the Home Smart Clinic has demonstrated an impressive utilization rate, five times higher than traditional telehealth services. It also contributes to a 5% reduction in overall healthcare costs and reduces unnecessary emergency department visits by nearly 11%. Serving over 220 major health systems and health plans across the U.S., Europe, Asia, Latin America, and the Middle East, TytoCare exemplifies the future of accessible, efficient healthcare.

  • WaterGen's technology is crucial for areas facing severe water scarcity or contamination. Providing a renewable source of clean drinking water addresses both the scarcity and quality of water issues. This advancement supports local agriculture, enhances health outcomes, and reduces the time communities spend on water collection, particularly in remote areas. In the U.S., WaterGen partnered with Flint, Michigan, to provide clean drinking water during its crisis. The units have been deployed in countries like India, Vietnam, and several African nations, significantly impacting communities by improving access to clean water.

  • Wiz cloud security innovation is enhancing global cybersecurity with its unique platform trusted by 35% of Fortune 100 companies. This platform democratizes security across the development lifecycle, enabling rapid and secure innovation. Wiz provides unparalleled visibility and risk prioritization, helping businesses globally to adapt swiftly to emerging threats and maintain robust digital security. By simplifying security management across diverse cloud environments, Wiz supports a safer digital ecosystem, protecting critical data and bolstering business resilience worldwide.

  • Eco Wave Power's technology offers significant potential for coastal communities, especially in regions where other renewable energy sources might be less viable. By tapping into the constant energy of waves, this technology provides a reliable and clean power source, contributing to energy security and the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions. The company is engaged in agreements and pilot projects in countries like Gibraltar and Mexico.

Avi Hasson
Avi Hasson

As we celebrate Israel’s Independence Day and 76 years of the country’s unique catalyst for progress, it is also important to note that our technology sector has been impacted by the current war. Nearly 15% of our tech talent was called up for reserve duty in the first months following the war and many projects were put on hold. However, on the other hand, many in the tech community quickly pivoted to providing critical solutions during the war. This surge in creative forces will resonate for years to come; conflict stimulates ideas and fosters innovative technology.

In the same way that there is frequently a baby boom after a war, we will experience a boom of innovation and new technologies after the current conflict. Israel’s problem-solvers are developing solutions to current and future challenges, offering opportunity and value in a world restless for scalable global solutions.

Avi Hasson is the CEO of Startup Nation Central, a Tel Aviv-based nonprofit organization that promotes Israeli innovation around the world. Hasson previously served as Israel’s chief scientist and the founding chairman of the Israel Innovation Authority and as an investor in Israeli technology companies.

This article originally appeared on NorthJersey.com: Israel's innovation leadership: 76 years and counting