Fast-Track Funding Program (Israel Innovation Authority) 🎁 Program

What you get

A one-off NIS 1 billion programme for startups and early-stage growth companies whose runway has shrunk because the shekel has risen against the US dollar. Selected companies receive a grant that covers 33% or 50% of the funding needed to extend runway by six months (roughly two or three months of runway), up to NIS 15 million (about $4.5 million). The rest must be matched by new financing, such as a funding round, a SAFE, a loan or new revenue. The Authority promises a decision within four weeks of submission.

Who qualifies

Companies no more than 15 years old, with less than 12 months of runway, whose expenses exceeded revenues in the 12 months before applying. Annual expenses must be between NIS 1.5 million and NIS 100 million, with at least 50% spent on R&D and at least 50% spent in Israel in shekels. Companies that have not raised capital in the past three years but fund themselves partly through sales can qualify if at least 50% of revenue is in foreign currency.

Good to know

You must submit a detailed business plan and R&D plan, and the Authority judges the company's quality, technology and commercial potential. The announcement does not say whether the grant is repaid through royalties like other Authority programmes, so check the programme rules. Submissions are open from 29 July until 19 November 2026.

Verdict

Very useful bridge money if you are an Israeli R&D company with a short runway and investors ready to match it. Not for idea-stage founders.

1. Check the eligibility tests: runway under 12 months, expenses NIS 1.5-100 million, 50%+ on R&D and in Israel.
2. Line up the matching financing (round, SAFE, loan or revenue).
3. Prepare a detailed business plan and R&D plan.
4. Submit through the Israel Innovation Authority system before 19 November 2026.
5. Expect a decision within about four weeks.