We would like to thank everyone who joined us for the First Annual U.S. Israel Business Summit. Though it was just its first year, the event managed to pull over 650 people, gaining support from companies and governmental organizations.
The event, hosted with assistance from Meda Conferences, the Federation of Israeli Chambers of Commerce, and the US Embassy Commercial Service, consisted of presentations and panels regarding binational investment, law and regulation, cultural barriers and acclimation. Panelists discussed Israeli business expansion and/or relocation to the U.S., the differences between Israeli and American consumers, and international business management “do’s and don'ts.” Specifically, the conditions of the recently passed E2 VISA, which facilitates binational trade and investment, were expanded upon.
To open, Yaniv Garty, CEO of Intel and Chairman of the Israel-America Chamber of Commerce, addressed the audience and commented on the double meaning of the Hebrew word, “חברה,” which translates to “company” and “community.” He mentioned the importance of fostering a healthy community of trade and social responsibility.
Florida Governor Ron Desantis made sure to stop by before his embassy meeting in Jerusalem. He proudly represented Florida, preaching that “Florida is the most pro-Israel state in the country [U.S.].” With him, he brought tens of the 75 Florida legislators who joined him for his first trade visit to Israel. In turn, a historical agreement; committing to a partnership between the Florida Chamber of Commerce, The Israel-America Chamber of Commerce, and The Federation of Israeli Chambers of Commerce; was signed on stage with Governor Desantis and AmCham-Israel’s CEO Oded Rose as official witnesses. Combined, the Florida and Israel economies make the 15th largest economy in the world.
Oded Rose moderated a panel himself, featuring:
Nicole “Nikki” Fried: Florida Commissioner of Agriculture
Alex Pollack: Regional Manager of Blackrock Israel
Yariv Hamer: Head of AT&T Foundry in Israel for Amdocs
Their topics of discussion included corporate social responsibility (CSR), canna-tech, the future of employability (and Operation Outsight), Israel-America business relations, and more.
To close the event, there was a very special, one-on-one interview with Eyal Waldman, CEO of Mellanox. He discussed the recent $7 billion acquisition of Mellanox, Mellanox’s path to that point, future of him and his company, and more.
A final thank you to all of the Chamber’s members who participated at the summit, constituting of Amdocs, Bank Leumi, BIRD Foundation, Blackrock Israel, Deloitte, Intel, LeumiTech, Mellanox, Outbrain, United Airlines, and more.
