Preparations

In order to prepare ourselves for the challenges of tech transfer and venture capital that await us in Israel, our team of MBA’s has been preparing since January.  We began this process by researching the three primary technology sectors for the Israeli economy: agricultural, water and medical devices.  We wrote in-depth reports detailing the economic drivers, strengths and weaknesses and primary companies in each of these segments.  We shared the reports with one another and will continue to review them as they apply to our specific projects and the companies we visit.

With the basics under our collective belt, the team met with several experts who shared their breadth of experience on topics ranging from intellectual property law to Jewish business ethics to the technology commercialization value chain.  Their knowledge has provided us with a basis of understanding that will make the transition to doing business in Israel much smoother, and for that we are grateful.

Ann Liebschutz, Executive Director, US Israel Science and Technology Foundation 

Ann expanded on our conception of the Israeli business environment by sharing her experience in promoting collaboration between Israeli and US firms and researchers.  Specifically, Ann contributed to our team’s understanding of the role of the Office of Chief Scientist in technology commercialization and how Israel has been able to cultivate such a pro-startup business environment.  Understanding and leveraging the public funds and support available in Israel is a crucial factor for the survival and success of the nation’s startups.  There is no doubt that we will be able to apply Ann’s expertise in our own work this summer.

Rick Zitelman, President and Founder, The Zitelman Group

With teammates from the US, China, Taiwan, Brazil, and Nigeria, one thing our team does not lack is international experience.  Rick’s discussion on Jewish business ethics, however, exposed our team to a different perspective on business dealings as seen from the perspective of Jewish tradition.  As a venture capitalist with experience investing in early stage technology companies in Israel, Rick’s insights were pertinent and highly applicable to our experience this summer.

Rick Zitelman of The Zitelman Group

Miles Gilburne, Managing Member, ZG Ventures LLC

From researchers, to tech transfer officers, to venture capitalists and everyone in between, our task this summer will require us to satisfy a diverse group of stakeholders.  Miles Gilburne imparted more than 25 years worth of venture capital experience when he led a spirited discussion on the technology transfer value chain.  He dissected the complex web of individuals that we will encounter throughout the technology commercialization process and explained the unique motivations and goals of each player throughout the process.

Miles Gilburne of ZG Ventures