JLens engages with numerous companies across a range of industries, inquiring about their operations and social impact work in Israel, and ensuring that companies know that their shareholders value their continued presence in Israel. These engagements are central to JLens’ “Support for Israel” scorecard: business presence in Israel and social action work in Israeli society are key scoring metrics for the companies in JLens’ portfolio. Encouraging companies to contribute toward social impact work in Israel has been a long-term advocacy priority for JLens.
Many companies have long demonstrated a steadfast commitment to Israel’s growth and community well-being. Firms like Intel, Alphabet, and Microsoft have embedded community activities and philanthropy into their operational ethos, driving initiatives that bolster education, innovation, and social inclusion in Israel.
The following are some of the companies JLens recognizes as leaders in this space, all demonstrating commitment to business and engagement in Israel. By highlighting the ways these well-known brands have stepped up, we hope to encourage more companies to see the value in responsible engagement with Israeli innovation, resilience, and community development.
Intel: Building a Foundation for Innovation 
Intel’s (NASDAQ: INTC) commitment to STEM education in Israel is both deep and wide-ranging. Over the past four years, Intel has invested NIS 20 million in national initiatives designed to bridge technology gaps and nurture local talent. At the heart of this effort is the “5*2” project, which encourages high school students to achieve the highest level of math matriculation by opting for a rigorous five-unit course. This initiative not only provides a challenging academic pathway but also prepares students for advanced studies in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. Approximately 6,000 Intel Israel employees volunteer in this program and other community activities.
Intel’s support for digital infrastructure extends into technology parks and incubators, where startups can access mentorship, funding, and state-of-the-art resources—ensuring that innovative ideas have the support needed to transform into viable businesses.
Alphabet: Fostering Inclusive Growth 
Google’s parent company, Alphabet (NASDAQ: GOOG), maintains robust community engagement programs that create lasting, inclusive opportunities. Alphabet recently launched a transformative $25 million initiative aimed at skills development over the next five years. This program specifically targets underrepresented communities—including the ultra-Orthodox, Arab professionals, women, and residents of areas outside Israel’s central regions. Additionally, Alphabet’s collaboration with Reichman University and other local institutions helps support high-tech students, further integrating academic excellence with industry demands.
Alphabet’s investments in digital platforms and cloud technologies empower small and medium enterprises to adopt next-generation tools and compete on a global scale. By providing access to cutting-edge technology and fostering a culture of innovation, Alphabet is helping to bridge the digital divide and stimulate economic growth.
Microsoft: Pathways for Economic Advancement 
Microsoft (NASDAQ: MSFT) leverages its global “Imagine Academy” framework in Israel to deliver digital literacy and IT skills training to thousands of students. Beyond formal education, Microsoft sponsors community tech events and cultural programs that celebrate local heritage while promoting technological proficiency. These efforts help create pathways for economic advancement and encourage participation from diverse groups. Microsoft’s initiatives in digital transformation enable local businesses to modernize their operations, drive efficiency, and create new job opportunities.
Western Digital: Nurturing Future Talent 
Software company Western Digital (NASDAQ: WDC) exhibits a sustained commitment to education in Israel. Through a three-year collaboration with the nonprofit QueenB, 42 volunteers have been delivering after-school coding classes in Hebrew and Arabic to underrepresented students, bolstering STEM exposure and nurturing future tech talent.
Cisco: Investing in Economic Partnerships 
Cisco’s (NASDAQ: CSCO) Network Academy in Israel educates 4,000 students, matching technical skill development with job opportunities through its affiliate network. In partnership with the Israeli government, Cisco is also investing in Palestinian technology companies and fostering economic partnerships between Israeli and Palestinian entrepreneurs to promote equitable digital access.
Sustaining Economic and Social Development
Corporate initiatives that emphasize education, technology, and social infrastructure lay the groundwork for long-term economic and social resilience. These companies are not only investing in future talent but are also actively contributing to the broader economic development of Israel.
Together, these efforts underscore a broader vision: responsible corporate practices are essential as a foundation for sustainable societal progress—ensuring that economic development and social well-being go hand in hand.
This blog post is the first in a series of posts about U.S. public companies and their business in Israel.
This information is for educational purposes only and should not be interpreted as investment advice or an investment offering. Investors should consult with an advisor to determine the suitability of any investment option or strategy. JLens disclaims responsibility or liability for any advice given to third parties or decisions to invest in any investment or other vehicle by you or third parties based on the information. Any investment in funds involves a risk of losing money. Past performance is not indicative of future results.
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