Key Facts
Key Information
About
The Israel Innovation Authority (IIA) is a statutory governmental agency under Israel's Ministry of Innovation, Science and Technology (formerly under the Ministry of Economy and Industry), serving as the principal funding and support arm of the Israeli government for technological innovation. Established in 2015 to consolidate and enhance Israel's innovation ecosystem, the IIA succeeded the Office of the Chief Scientist, integrating its functions with broader innovation initiatives to streamline support for R&D. It is responsible for planning and executing the country's innovation policy, promoting technological innovation, fostering the high-tech sector, and funding R&D in high-tech startups and other projects to promote innovation and economic growth, distributing billions in grants annually. The Authority provides grants, loans, incentives, and other funding programs to support research and development (R&D) activities across technology sectors, including startups, high-tech companies, academia, industry, and international collaborations. It administers a range of programs, such as the Innovation Program for direct grants to companies, the Technological Incubators Program for early-stage ventures, and international partnerships to encourage knowledge transfer and joint ventures. With a focus on sectors like cybersecurity, biotech, agritech, and clean energy, the IIA invests in projects that align with national priorities, often requiring intellectual property royalties in return for funding. The IIA's efforts have significantly contributed to Israel's high R&D expenditure as a percentage of GDP, one of the highest worldwide. It collaborates with venture capital firms, universities, and multinational corporations to bridge gaps between research and commercialization, playing a pivotal role in maintaining Israel's status as a global leader in technology and 'Startup Nation.' While primarily domestic-focused, the authority facilitates global outreach, including binational funds with countries like the United States and EU members, to amplify Israel's technological influence.