Israel Innovation Authority Launches ILS 10M Tender to Attract Foreign AI Experts to Israel
Initiative will support recruitment of highly skilled AI researchers with advanced degrees and experience in the high-tech industry to bolster Israeli high-tech companies
CFP targeted at organizations experienced in integrating foreign human capital, including assistance with candidate reception and acclimation in Israeli high-tech companies
The Israel Innovation Authority announced today the launched of a tender worth NIS 10 million aimed at attracting foreign artificial intelligence (AI) experts to Israel. This strategic move is designed to enhance the capabilities of Israeli high-tech companies by recruiting highly skilled AI researchers with advanced degrees and substantial industry experience. The initiative reflects Israel’s commitment to maintaining its status as a global leader in technology and innovation.
The Call For Proposals (CFP) invites applicants from entities with a proven track record in managing foreign human capital, providing comprehensive support for the integration and acclimation of international experts within the Israeli high-tech ecosystem. By bridging the gap in the local talent pool, this initiative not only addresses the immediate demand for AI expertise but also fosters long-term growth and innovation in Israel’s high-tech industry.
Gila Gamliel, Minister of Innovation, Science, and Technology: “To maintain Israel’s status as a global tech superpower, we must work relentlessly to attract the best foreign experts. This call will help us bridge the gap in the local expert pool and bring exceptional AI talent to Israel. Through this funding, we bolster the Israeli industry and ensure further growth and innovation for future generations.”
Dror Bin, CEO of the Israel Innovation Authority: “This initiative aims to strengthen the human capital in Israel by bringing the best AI experts to work in local high-tech companies. Bringing leading global experts in AI is critical to maintaining Israel’s leadership in the field. This pilot program’s success will pave the way for similar initiatives in AI and other technology fields. We believe that creating a supportive and advanced work environment will enable these experts to develop and lead innovative projects, contributing to the Israeli economy and Israel’s status as a global innovation and technology hub.”
Israel currently graduates fewer than 700 MA students annually in computer science, mathematics, and statistics, with fewer than 100 PhD graduates each year.
As advanced technology and AI continue to reshape industries and everyday life, Israel faces a growing need for AI experts, particularly in machine learning and deep learning across various sectors. The global competition for talent underscores the need for immediate action. Investments in local training, attracting foreign experts, and improving R&D infrastructure are vital steps to maintain Israel’s position as a leading technology hub.
The CFP is intended for organizations experienced in managing foreign human resources, including support for the reception and acclimation of candidates and their families. This includes partnerships with entities and NGOs involved in acclimating new immigrants (Olim), returning Israeli residents, immigrants entitled to naturalization under the Law of Return, and foreign experts. Candidates must hold an MA or PhD in relevant AI fields and possess practical industry experience.
The CFP offers 50%-70% funding based on the approved budget. Programs will be approved for a duration of 24 months and will include substantial support to ensure successful integration of the experts into the Israeli high-tech industry.
Dr. Ziv Katzir, Head of the National AI Program at the Innovation Authority: “Human capital is the most critical resource for the Israeli high-tech industry, especially in AI. Israel leads globally in the number of AI companies and their ability to introduce breakthrough products to the market. However, maintaining this leadership depends on our ability to increase the number of AI experts in the industry. These experts, who require extensive academic training, are central to the R&D processes and are in high global demand. This unique CFP is designed to bolster Israel’s ability to attract top-level experts, aid startups in accessing the global talent pool, and enable further diversification and growth of Israeli high-tech.”