What's Happening?
A new initiative called Gaya, backed by an $800,000 government grant from Israel's Immigration and Absorption Ministry, aims to support skilled Jewish immigrants, or 'olim', in Israel. This initiative is a response to concerns about a 'brain drain' in Israel,
exacerbated by recent national events such as the 2023 judicial overhaul protests and the October 7 terror attacks. Gaya is designed to help olim not only integrate but thrive in Israel by providing a sense of belonging and professional networks, similar to those native Israelis gain through army service and university friendships. The initiative builds on the success of Nevo Network, which has supported highly skilled olim in the tech sector, boasting a 91% retention rate among its participants.
Why It's Important?
The initiative is significant as it addresses the challenge of retaining skilled immigrants in Israel, which is crucial for the country's economic and social development. By focusing on creating a supportive community and professional networks, Gaya aims to prevent the loss of human capital that occurs when skilled olim leave Israel due to a lack of integration and support. This effort is seen as a strategic investment in Israel's future, leveraging the expertise and experience of immigrants from larger, more established countries to help Israel scale and grow. The initiative also reflects a shift from traditional absorption methods to empowerment, aiming to create a more inclusive and supportive environment for new immigrants.
What's Next?
Gaya plans to expand its reach by engaging 500 olim annually by the end of 2026 and increasing to 900 active members by the end of 2027. The initiative will focus on various sectors, including medicine, engineering, and education, and will involve partnerships with organizations like Sheba Medical Center. To unlock the full government grant, Nevo has launched a $350,000 matching philanthropic campaign, aiming to amplify private donations with state investment. The success of Gaya could serve as a model for other countries facing similar challenges with skilled immigration and integration.
