Powering the AI Age
An Interview with Zvica Goltzman, Deputy Head of Israel's National AI Program
In an era where artificial intelligence (AI) drives technological advancements, Israel Stands together with those leading the charge, pushing boundaries and setting benchmarks.
Recently, we had the opportunity to sit down with Zvica Goltzman, the Deputy Head of the National AI Program in Israel, to sat down to discuss the program’s vision, objectives, and future – specifically increasing access to computing power, an essential part of being able to power AI innovation.
AI is not just one more sector, it is a strategic tool
Goltzman begins by highlighting the strategic importance of the AI industry. “The AI industry is not just another high-tech sector but also has strategic public and political implications,” he notes. The program aims to address market failures by providing the necessary infrastructure, including access to data and skilled workforce, which are often too costly for private entities to handle alone.
Leveraging AI
The program’s primary goal is to leverage AI for societal and economic gains, fostering innovation that transcends traditional boundaries. Goldzman emphasizes, “We aim to promote cutting-edge, groundbreaking innovation and establish local and multinational AI companies. It’s about capitalizing on Israel’s entrepreneurial spirit and multidisciplinary collaboration.”
Boosting Computational Power
A significant upcoming initiative is a call for proposals to increase computing power for AI development. Goltzman explains, “We are allocating over $50 million to secure access to advanced, scalable computing resources for AI development and scientific computation.” This initiative addresses the growing need for computational power, which has become a barrier to innovation due to the global shortage of specialized GPU hardware. Goltzman believes that in about a year they will be able to initiate a call for proposals for startups interested in using the computing power.
Goltzman offers valuable advice for startups looking to leverage computing power and other resources provided by the National AI Program and the Israeli Innovation Authority. “Focus on cutting-edge, high-risk R&D. We complement VCs by investing in high-risk areas where traditional investors hesitate,” he advises. Startups should also stay updated with the latest news and calls for proposals from the Innovation Authority.
This is just the beginning
Looking ahead, computing power is one of many plans. A strategy paper detailing these plans will soon also be available on their website
Members of DAT.A-IL can stay informed about various initiatives through the community’s updates as well as the program’s page, where you can also contact Goltzman directly.
Israel’s National AI Program is poised to drive significant advancements in AI, fostering innovation and collaboration across sectors. With strategic initiatives and a clear vision, the program aims to cement Israel’s position as a global AI powerhouse.
