Annual Review 2024
Updated: Jan 9
Message from the President
To all our dear Members, Friends, and Partners in Israel and in the UK,
As we step into a new year, let us strive for hope, growth, and unity. We wish for the safe return of our loved ones, an end to suffering, and the beginning of a fruitful and peaceful future. The past year was characterized by enhanced partnerships; together, we are always better! It's all about the People!
With love and optimism, Anita Leviant, Adv. President, IBCC & Innovation
2024 IBCC & Innovation Highlights
February: Roundtable: Israel-UK Economic Dialogues
This event featured His Majesty's Ambassador (HMA) Simon Walters and Professor Adnan Khan, Chief Economist at the UK Foreign Office, alongside industry leaders from companies including HSBC, Teva, Virgin Atlantic, and Bank Mizrahi Tephahot. Discussions centered on economic and regional challenges, focusing on fostering positive relations between Israel and the UK.
March: International Women’s Day: Oxford Alumni Club Launch
The launch of the Oxford Alumni Club was held at the British Ambassador’s residence in Israel and honored women leaders. IBCC President Anita Leviant, invited as a keynote speaker, started with a heartfelt tribute to the women held captive by Hamas, urging their immediate release and calling each of their names.
Leviant stated, "this not just another International Women's Day, it should be connected entirely to the horrific cry of the kidnapped women and girls in Hamas tunnels, to what they are enduring, and the continuing silence of the world".
The club founders, Simon Kotlerman and Dr. Aviv Yezekieli, celebrated the establishment of the Israeli chapter, which was attended by graduates now working in diverse fields. Collaboration between the Club and IBCC & Innovation was confirmed later in the year.
June-July: Climate Week and Global Business Forum in London
London celebrated summer with cultural festivals and significant global business events. Highlights included:
Climate Week Summit: Key discussions were held with former COP event leaders and representatives from British Chambers of Commerce worldwide, emphasizing the role of businesses in addressing climate priorities.
Global Connect Annual Conference: This forum, held at Lloyds in London, tackled future business challenges, focusing on global marketing, cross-border cooperation, and innovation. Key participants included Anita Leviant and senior executives from leading organizations.
House of Lords Reception: Attendees engaged in networking and discussions on Middle Eastern developments, highlighting opportunities for collaboration.
Additionally, International Cyber Week and AI Week were organized by Tel Aviv University’s Blavatnik Interdisciplinary Cyber Research Center, Yuval Ne’eman Workshop for Science, Technology, and Security, and the Israel Innovation Authority. These events emphasized Israel’s leadership in cybersecurity and artificial intelligence, further solidifying its global reputation as a technological powerhouse.
August: Post-Election Roundtable and FTA Negotiations Announcement
The IBCC & Innovation roundtable, hosted by the British Ambassador in Israel and moderated by IBCC President Anita Leviant, focused on the change of Government and its implications for relations, trade, and investments. Attendees included leaders from major companies such as HSBC, Teva, KPMG, and CSL.
A significant announcement was made by the UK Trade Secretary regarding the renewal of Free Trade Agreement (FTA) negotiations between Israel and the UK, signaling a strong commitment to deepening economic ties. Furthermore, a joint research collaboration initiative between Israel and the UK was launched, offering funding for innovative projects in fields such as Quantum Technologies, AI in drug discovery, and food packaging.
September: Mind the Tech London
The "Mind the Tech" conference in London attracted hundreds of participants from Israel and the UK, showcasing collaboration in innovation as a solution to global challenges. The IBCC & Innovation hosted a panel on AI insights for Investors and Innovators, and notable guests included Howard Dauber, Deputy Mayor of London, London & Partners, VCs, and UK bankers, businesses, and investors. This event reinforced our commitment to fostering technological partnerships and innovation.
December:
BP and BCC's Pre-Christmas Breakfast was held at the House of Lords with MD Shevaun Havilland.
Israel’s Global Rankings: The Startup Blink's 2024 Global Startup Ecosystem Index established that Israel ranks 3rd globally for the fourth consecutive year in the startup ecosystem. Israel is narrowing its gap with the UK (ranked 2nd) to just 8.6%. It also holds 1st place in the Middle East & Africa region.
Looking Ahead
This year demonstrated the power of collaboration, innovation, and resilience. Together, we have made strides in strengthening the Israel-UK business partnership. Let us continue to build on this momentum and work together toward a brighter, united future.
With hope for peace and progress,
The IBCC & Innovation Team
Download the full newsletter here:
