The Israel Innovation &
Entrepreneurship Hub
Bridging the Israeli and UCLA tech ecosystems.
Connecting students with the
Start-Up Nation
The Israel Innovation & Entrepreneurship Hub (IHub) at Hillel at UCLA is a dynamic initiative designed to inspire and empower Jewish students by connecting them with the cutting-edge world of Israeli high-tech and start-up culture. As part of UCLA's vibrant Hillel community, IHub serves as a gateway to explore Israel's renowned innovation ecosystem through curated workshops, speaker events, networking opportunities, and direct connections with Israeli entrepreneurs and tech leaders.
Innovation & Imagination
Our connection to Israel is not solely about peoplehood or politics. It is a vital way for us to transcend the political noise and focus on the incredible creativity, innovation, and entrepreneurial energy that has shaped the nation.
By centering on the "Start-Up Nation", we intentionally focus on what unites us: bold ideas and future-forward solutions. We aim to capture the vibrancy of Tel Aviv—a place where ideas are rapidly accelerated into global solutions—and bring that energy to UCLA.
Meeting the Moment
Empowering students with future-ready skills, building an entrepreneurial community, and strengthening the vital ties between UCLA, Los Angeles, and Israel's dynamic culture of innovation.
Foundational Creativity
Shining a light on innovation and imagination as the foundational creativity that is shaping the next chapter of Jewish life at UCLA.
Israel Tech Student Groups
The IHub actively collaborates with existing student organizations that align with its mission, such as TAMID at UCLA, which connects students with Israeli companies through consulting and investing experiences, and Tikkun Olam Makers (TOM), which fosters social impact through innovation and accessible product design. By partnering with these clubs, IHub amplifies their reach, provides shared programming opportunities, and facilitates cross-pollination of ideas and networks. At the same time, IHub encourages students to take initiative and launch new clubs or ventures related to Israeli innovation, offering mentorship, resources, and a supportive community to turn their ideas into reality.
Hosting Israeli Start Ups
A key component of the IHub is its role as a landing pad for Israeli founders looking to expand their start-ups into the U.S. market, particularly in the thriving Los Angeles innovation landscape. By hosting these entrepreneurs at UCLA or within the broader L.A. area, IHub creates unique opportunities for students to engage directly with founders who bring firsthand insight into Israel's start-up ecosystem and the challenges of international growth. These founders serve as valuable resources—offering mentorship, speaking at campus events, and sharing real-world experiences that enrich students' understanding of global entrepreneurship. Many also open doors to internships or job opportunities within their ventures.
Entrepreneurship Programs
The Israel Innovation & Entrepreneurship Hub (IHub) at UCLA Hillel offers students hands-on guidance in entrepreneurship, with a particular focus on transforming early-stage ideas into viable start-ups. Through curated workshops, mentorship, and direct connections with Israeli founders, IHub introduces students to the proven methodologies and entrepreneurial mindset that define Israel's 'Start-Up Nation.' Students receive tailored support in key areas of venture creation—such as ideation, business modeling, product development, and go-to-market strategies—while also gaining access to industry leaders and mentors.
Promoting Investments in Israel
IHub at UCLA Hillel also fosters active investment in Israel by deepening ties to its start-up ecosystem and academic institutions. Through direct engagement with Israeli founders and exposure to Israel's unique culture of innovation, IHub encourages students to see Israel as both a hub of opportunity and a partner for collaboration. Beyond business, IHub builds bridges to Israeli universities, tech accelerators, and social-impact ventures, cultivating lasting academic, professional, and cultural connections. In doing so, it inspires students to invest—intellectually, socially, and professionally—in strengthening the dynamic relationship between Israel and the global Jewish community.