THEBUSINESSBYTES BUREAU
BHUBANESWAR, NOVEMBER 7, 2026
Odisha is exploring new avenues for international investment and
technological collaboration with Israel, with a Business and Innovation
Roundtable bringing together Israeli delegates, investors and local
entrepreneurs at O-Hub here on Friday.
The roundtable, jointly organised by Startup Odisha and the state
government's MSME Department, focused on strengthening business relations,
fostering technology partnerships and creating new opportunities for startups
in the state.
During the interaction, Israeli delegates explored innovative products
and solutions developed by Odisha-based startups and discussed potential areas
of collaboration in emerging sectors, including environmental protection,
Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) initiatives, surveillance systems
and drone technology.
Gilad Neuman, Managing Partner of the Social Accelerator at the Jewish
People Policy Institute (JPPI), highlighted the significant potential for
cooperation between Israel and Odisha, particularly in technology-driven
sectors. He also explored possible partnerships with O-Hub to strengthen
startup incubation and support mechanisms.
Startup Odisha CEO Smruti Ranjan Pradhan presented an overview of the
state's rapidly evolving startup ecosystem and highlighted the opportunities
available for entrepreneurs and investors. Mission Associate Saloni Mahapatra
delivered the welcome address, while Dr Bijay Kumar Sahu, Head of the NRDC
Outreach Office, outlined the background and objectives of the meeting. Bisasis
Gantayat of HCL attended the programme as an expert.
A special session on technology, digital innovation, sustainability and
social entrepreneurship provided a platform for meaningful exchanges between
the two sides. Israeli representatives encouraged Odisha-based startups to
focus on developing practical, scalable and technology-driven solutions to
address real-world challenges.
Investors also expressed interest in exploring potential opportunities in
drone technology, healthcare and sustainable development, signalling promising
prospects for cross-border business partnerships and investment.
The interaction is expected to give fresh impetus to Odisha's efforts to position itself as an emerging startup and innovation hub by connecting local entrepreneurs with international markets, advanced technologies, global expertise and investment networks.
The initiative marks another step towards strengthening Odisha's global business outreach, while opening up new possibilities for Israeli companies and investors to engage with the state's growing entrepreneurial ecosystem.
