Partnerships are built on teamwork, transparency, and trust. In a partnership, actions are powerful; they often speak louder than words. When we consider the importance of partnerships, actions matter!
A common expression, “when the going gets tough, the tough get going,” originally coined by Coach John Thomas, represents resilience in the face of adversity and the idea that actions matter. This maxim epitomizes MIBA’s partnership with Israelis.
I recently completed my 12th trip to Israel earlier this month, and it was my most powerful yet. Eight months into the war, the conflict continues, and the people of Israel continue to face tragedy. However, the startup nation story continues unabated across all realms of innovation, notably in the six sectors most relevant for the State of Michigan: Mobility, Defense, HealthTech, Industry 4.0, Food/Ag Tech, and Sustainability (climate tech).
My physical presence in Israel, along with my Israeli-based team, spoke volumes. It sent a clear and unmistakable message that when other states slow down, Michigan accelerates. That message was heard loud and clear, reflected by the warm welcome I received everywhere and the expressions of appreciation for my trip. It was coupled with excitement for potential business opportunities, and for many, it initiated the conversation to consider Michigan as the premier location to launch their US-based operations. It conveyed that we are people first, focusing on demonstrating our support for all Israelis, reinforcing our meaningful connections, and driving partnerships.
Highlights of My Four-Day Trip:
The following highlights further elevated Michigan’s stature in the eyes of the best and brightest in Startup Nation:
- Largest Michigan Mobility Pavilion at EcoMotion Assembly 2024: The MIBA Team created and led this event – we floored it!
- Leadership Demonstration: The MEDC, Office of Future Mobility and Electrification, and the MIBA were the only state to partner with EcoMotion for the fifth consecutive year.
- Engagement with Israeli Startups: Dozens of Israeli startups, mature companies, and global corporate executives visited our pavilion, and we are actively following up with many.
- Portal to Michigan: Our creatively designed portal featured Michigan partners, including Assembly Ventures’ Chris Thomas, Magna International’s Joe Tenbusch, Ford’s Kristin Welch, and OFME’s Janine Ward and Charlie Tyson, who were remotely available in real-time to engage Israeli entrepreneurs driving the innovative future. Justin Johnson, Michigan’s Chief Mobility Officer, also joined us as part of the keynote panel that featured Michigan mobility leaders. Thank you, all, for your partnership!
Other Impactful Meetings:
- Sustainability Roundtable: A powerful session with Israeli ecosystem leadership representing VCs, innovation communities, and pioneers to discuss Michigan’s Healthy Climate Plan (see highlight here)
- Defense Industry Dialogue: A meaningful conversation with Israel’s defense industry leadership who look to us for strong relationships in Warren.
- Food/Ag Tech Ecosystem Gathering: Addressing challenges and opportunities in Michigan’s >$100B industry with Israeli Food & AgTech ecosystem investors, venture builders, and innovation hubs.
- Innovation Programs Discussion: A substantive meeting with Sheba Medical Center, the 10th best hospital in the world.
- Partnership with @mHealth Women: An exciting collaboration to launch a fall inbound Michigan Tech Tour.
The Israeli public, as they continue to live, celebrate, grow, and inspire, are always aware of the Israelis still being held captive by Hamas. As Michiganders, I felt their pain and am awed by their resilience. Resilience is the capacity to recover quickly from difficulties; it’s the key to successful leadership, especially in challenging times. Israeli entrepreneurs and business leaders overcome calamities, grief, and injury daily. And they deliver #NoMatterWhat. They continuously gain my respect and that of global leaders.
The allegiance is clear, the synergies are powerful. Michigan stands with Israeli innovation.
In partnership,
Scott Hiipakka
