Last month saw the first Olimpact event take place in Tel Aviv, Israel, shining the spotlight on the great potential new immigrants (or Olim) from all over the world are making to the Israeli economy. The sold-out event was attended by over 160 early-stage startup creators, industry experts, successful entrepreneurs, and investors with the aim of providing an unprecedented platform to foster connections between early-stage innovators and entrepreneurs within the immigrant community. Speakers included Helena Baker from ESN International, Lena Rogovin, a Startup Growth Strategist, and British-Israeli Reputation Management expert and tech entrepreneur Simon Leigh.
The inaugural networking meeting was held at Voodoo Bar in Tel Aviv on the 13TH of June, and has caught the attention of the press both in Israel and globally. Organised by American-Israeli businessman Mike Prepelitskiy, 41, who was born in Ukraine and emigrated to Israel in June 2023. Olimpact was the brainchild of Prepelitskiy, who has over a decade of experience in business management, startup advising, and public policy, team building, and strategic planning. Recognizing the untapped potential of new immigrants, and the benefits of supporting their economic integration he founded this new non-profit platform in May 2023.
Israel is a world-renowned hub of innovation and technological advancement. The nation's entrepreneurial spirit has given birth to globally recognized high-tech companies and a pulsating startup culture. However, we acknowledge the difficultes, including language and cultural barriers faced by Olim particularly in realizing their full potential within Israel’s economy. As the only democracy in the middle-east, friend to the West and global leader in many industries, it is the home of innovation in the region.
Commenting on the event, organiser Mike Prepelitskiy said: "It was a pleasure to engage with such talented individuals and witness the birth of transformative ideas. Our efforts have borne fruit, and I'm excited to announce that we have more impactful experiences lined up for entrepreneurs. By strengthening the economic integration of Olim and encouraging their invaluable contributions to Israel's vibrant business ecosystems, we're fostering national prosperity."
Speaking at the event, Simon Leigh, 37, from Pure Reputation agency who presented TeamTimeline.co.uk, his new online collaboration platform. He was born in Hadera, Israel, and moved to England at the age of eight, returning as a Toshav Chozer in April 2021. Simon Leigh, Hebrew name, Shimon Moshe Ha’Levi, is also the founder of multi-currency online wallet Spread Wallet. His agency, Pure Reputation, founded in 2011, removes negative company reviews and other unwanted online content.
He commented: ‘‘It was fantastic to be able to introduce my ideas in such an open and easy way. The open-mic format allowed everyone to get involved and really listen to each other for the first time. It is great seeing Olim from all over the world including Britain, America, South America and Europe all represented here, working toward making their ideas a reality in the Jewish state. We are all Zionists, all family, and stand proud with Israel.’’
More Olimpact events have been lined up in the coming weeks, with more involvement from local investors and businesses, looking to tap into this new platform. Tickets will be available from Eventbrite with further details to be announced.
This article was written in cooperation with APG