Last Thursday, I was co-moderator of a fantastic networking event. It linked the Jerusalem Business Networking Forum with the CleanIsrael Network, the Association of Renewable Energy Industries, and the Movement for a Stronger Israel.

11 new cleantech companies presented themselves in front of a strong audience, led by Naomi Zur. She is deputy mayor of Jerusalem and has a direct mandate to push this sector in the new administration.

What makes this so impressive? Well, in the midst of a global recession, a war and a new drought in this part of the Middle East, these 11 companies are seeking to make a difference. And not just wishful thinking. Glen Schwaber, with 15 years of experience in VCs and General Partner at Israel Cleantech Ventures noted that 3 years ago, nobody put their money in cleantech. Last year, around US$200m was committed to 20 projects in Israel.

The details. Jerusalem is already known as the world leader in developing solar energy tech. Papers delivered by enertglobal, G3Solar and others rammed home that message. Wind energy, biofuel, watertech etc are all fully represented in the Holy City. Cequesta Ltd is already delivering wastewater devices to Europe.

Essentially, these companies have struggles to find their way through “the system”. The activity is finally being acknowledged by central government. Sigal Admoni of the Industry Ministry, who presented for the first time in public a US$100 million national Renewable Energy Programme. Unlike many of the other politicians, she sat through all the company discussions.

On a cold winter’s night, there were a 100 + people in the room. They represented the interested and curious, biz dev types, and investors. The truth is that the IP content on show was worthy of a global audience.

It showed the way forward to a new wealth of commercial potential. I have generated 3 very key and exciting meetings as a result of the event. 

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