FAQs
1. Who is behind the Ofakim Accelerator?
The Ofakim Accelerator is a joint venture between HamitbaH, the city of Ofakim and the Sarona Partners organization, with its successful programs SigmaLabs and 365x Scale-up, as well as its wider ecosystem including Sarona Ventures, Sarona Space, Sarona Innovation and Geektime Media and the Municipality of Kfar Saba, the greenest City in Israel.
2. Which startups are you looking for?
We are looking for:
1. At least 2 team members and at least one Technical ​
2. Working full time on the company​
3. In the industries of Agriculture, Climate oriented, Biomaterials and water ​
4. Be able to commit to ​full duration of the​ ​program, including weekly to Ofakim.
3. What is the cost of the Program?
The Program is free, there is no cost associated to attending the program, what the Program requests, as a proof of commitment, is a right to invest by the Sarona Group, for up to $500K at the terms of your next round.
4. What is the role of Mitbach? Ofakim etc?
Each partner play a crucial role in providing value to the program, our founders and ecosystem. Each one of our partners bring years of experience and its own ecosystem for our founders to take advantage of.
5. What is the role of Sarona Partners?
Sarona Partners is leading the program with the main objective to support Israeli related tech startups to become successful multinational corporations.
Sarona is opening its entire ecosystem for the startups participating in the program, including its own activities: Access to Sarona Space locations, sessions with Sarona Ventures management team, our C-Level community, Corporate partners, Investors network and committed verified vendors.
6. What does the program provide?
Our startup program is designed to provide comprehensive support to help you build and scale your business. You’ll benefit from expert mentorship with personalized guidance in product development, go-to-market strategies, fundraising, and sales from seasoned professionals in your specific industry.
To ensure a strong foundation, we offer essential resources, including templates, cap tables, and P&L statements, to kickstart your journey with confidence.
Additionally, our global network connects you with investors, corporates, and partners worldwide, providing the platform needed to expand your reach and grow your startup.
Our program is dedicated to supporting you every step of the way, offering the resources, guidance, and connections necessary to succeed in today's competitive market.
The program lasts for 6 months, divided into two 3-month phases. During the first 3 months, content and resources are provided. In the second 3 months, startups will apply the strategies developed and work with mentors to refine them. Throughout the entire 6 months, companies can fully benefit from the resources and support of the Ofakim Innovation Center, including the Ofakim Innovation center working space, built for tech teams.
7. How many startups are accepted?
We will select 4-8 companies per batch.
8. Do I need to be physically present in the program? Does my team need to be present as well?
The program requires physical presence at the Ofakim Innovation Center for on-site sessions, typically held once a week.
9. Will I meet investors?
Yes.
Throughout the program you will meet at least twice with investors in two dedicated events:
• Feedback Session - Meet friendly investors and get feedback to refine your approach, pitch and strategy.
• Demo Day -Investors from Israel and abroad will attend to watch your presentation and could approach you after your pitch to discuss the investment.
• Regardless of the dedicated events, amongst our Mentors and Ecosystem, there are representatives of Israeli and international VCs and several Angel Investors. Also, in case of delegation visit, you will get the chance to pitch.
10. My company recently raised funds, should I apply and will I benefit from the program?
Absolutely! You are now in the critical stage of determining the best use of your funds. Startup growth can be quite tricky, and we are here to help you find the best approach to scale your business while providing access to global opportunities.
11. Will you take into consideration late applications?
The Team will receive and review applications all year along but, passed the deadline, the company will be considered for the following batch, being selected three months after.