From Israel to the US: Enhancing cybersecurity through strategic partnerships

The United States has earned its reputation as one of the most advanced nations in the world. It has numerous cybersecurity programs and a steady stream of innovative startups that continue redefining the industry. However, the continuous onslaught of attacks from nation-state threat actors, sophisticated cybercrime groups, amateur hackers, and everything in between is a stark reminder of the ever-present threat to our security. This necessitates our unwavering vigilance in the search for the best cybersecurity defenses available.

While the U.S. has some of the most talented cybersecurity practitioners in the world, we don’t have a monopoly on that talent. The small nation of Israel has emerged as a powerhouse for producing some of the most successful cybersecurity companies in the world. This is a reassuring sign that Israel's innovative solutions can bolster our cyber defenses.

For example, Sepio provides organizations with critical visibility and security of IoT devices; CyberArk ensures the organization’s most sensitive accounts remain protected, and Claroty secures mission-critical infrastructure. These are just a few Israeli companies that have successfully brought their unique and highly effective security solutions to the U.S. However, many more emerging technologies can offer a wealth of benefits in further strengthening U.S. cyber defenses that have not yet received the recognition from U.S. CISOs they deserve. This hinges on the nature and quality of collaboration between Israeli entrepreneurs and U.S. private and public sector organizations, who must work together to bring these solutions to the U.S.

Creating a Symbiotic Relationship

However, such a collaboration requires access to and knowledge of a complex ecosystem and the inner workings of the U.S. government and the private sector. Cybersecurity startups coming out of Israel don’t necessarily have the business acumen needed to grow a company in the U.S. This is one of the reasons a strong investment partner is so critical. VCs with expertise in the Israeli market play a significant role in providing unparalleled value and support when it comes to expanding to the U.S. and other countries. Israeli startups don’t typically have a problem selling to other Israeli companies, as founders are well-connected to business leaders in the country. But success within Israel doesn’t necessarily translate to success in the more competitive U.S. market.

U.S. buyers may rightfully show concern if a reputable VC does not back a cybersecurity startup. A company’s investors and partners provide an additional layer of confidence that the company has a working product and will be a long-term partner. The U.S. has a hugely diversified geography and a much broader market, and Israeli founders don’t have the personal connections to most U.S. buyers that they do with Israeli buyers.

For example, Israeli cybersecurity startups must ensure they have an outlet for U.S. CISOs if they wish to sell to this market eventually. They need to hear directly from CISOs about the challenges they experience so they can focus on solving them and ensure the product is designed with customer needs in mind. Sophisticated buyers hear much more noise from Israeli vendors, the U.S., and others worldwide. As a result, it can be very difficult to get a U.S. buyer’s attention unless you understand how to message your product properly.

Forging close partnerships between Israeli founders, knowledgeable and experienced VCs who understand the Israeli and U.S. markets, and U.S. buyers in the private and public sectors is important to protecting U.S. businesses and infrastructure now and in the future. Paving the way for easier access to cyber innovation coming out of Israel will further strengthen our own cybersecurity and resilience.

Resilience and a Strong Channel Characterize the Israeli Market

Israel's cybersecurity landscape is characterized by a unique combination of factors that drive its success as a global leader in the industry. The country benefits from a comprehensive cybersecurity ecosystem with a complete supply chain, a continuously growing talent pool, and hands-on experience from military units like Unit 8200. This unit, part of the Israel Defense Forces, produces graduates with extensive experience in cyber defense, who often transition into the private sector to find successful startups.

The supportive environment for these entrepreneurs, including government encouragement and a culture of mentorship among veteran founders, fosters a cycle of innovation and success. The resilience of Israeli companies, shaped by the country's history of conflict, further bolsters investor confidence and ensures continued growth and innovation in the cybersecurity sector. This robust ecosystem enhances Israel's national security and provides valuable solutions to global cybersecurity challenges, particularly for U.S. organizations seeking advanced defenses against evolving threats.