New Initiative Aims to Support Skilled Immigrants in Israel Amid Brain Drain Concerns
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.