On the other hand
Welcome to 2020.
The political crystal ball is decidedly opaque but one thing is certain, namely that this year will once again witness outstanding achievements by Israel in technological innovations, discoveries, inventions and medical breakthroughs.
This tiny country is already on the verge of becoming a major exporter of energy and hopefully, the economic benefits accruing will benefit all sectors of Israeli society.
ISRAEL IN THE TOP 10 AGAIN
A study, which drew on public data from bodies including the International Labor Organization, UNESCO and the Global Entrepreneurship Monitor, found that the U.S. ranked most highly in aggregate across three main segments considered conducive to women’s entrepreneurship.
Those were: a) Women’s advancement outcomes, such as women’s labour force participation; b) Knowledge assets and financial access, including the ability to secure funding; and c) supporting entrepreneurial factors, like the cultural perception of women entrepreneurs.
Out of a total of 100 points, the U.S. scored 70.3, fueled by a “surge in women’s entrepreneurial activity rate” and a boost to supporting conditions, such as the ease of doing business. New Zealand scored 70.2 thanks to strong governance and good financial support. Canada (69) ranked in third place, again due to good financial inclusion and sound cultural perceptions.
Rounding out the top 10 best places for women entrepreneurs wereIsrael(68.4), Ireland (67.7), Taiwan (66.2), Switzerland (65.8), Singapore(65.6), U.K. (65.6), Poland (65.1) and the Philippines (65.1).
FOOD OF THE FUTURE
Three Israeli food-tech initiatives were among 15 revolutionary startups to pitch groundbreaking, sustainable solutions for the food and agriculture industry in London recently…
Redefine Meat of Rehovot won the People’s Choice Award, one of three top prizes. The company is developing “a plant-based steak without the cow in the middle.”
The Redefine Meat technology will use a proprietary recipe of sustainable and natural ingredients and a 3D printer to produce a vegan food with the appearance, texture and flavor of meat.
The other Israeli finalists in the competition and networking platform were ag-tech startup Trellis, whose AI-powered Food System Intelligence Platform aims to optimize the way millions of acres of land are transformed into consumable food; and Else Nutrition, developer of a non-soy, nondairy infant formula.
ONLY IN ISRAEL
With all the uncertainties, problems and challenges which lie ahead, there is no better way to start 2020 than to read and watch some of the inspiring moments which make Israel such a special place.
If your car breaks down or some other emergency happens there are volunteers ready, willing and able to ride to your rescue.
Watch and be moved by this true story of one such person who rediscovered his faith here in the place where it all began.
