Israel is a small country with a population of just over 9 million, yet it has become a global leader in innovation and entrepreneurship. Known as the “Startup Nation,” Israel has produced more successful technology startups per capita than any other country in the world. 

One key reason for this is the training and mentorship offered by Israel’s army. Military service in Israel is compulsory, meaning almost all of its small population is able to benefit the army’s tech-focused guidance. 

During their time in the Israel Defense Forces (IDF), soldiers gain unique skills that enable them to go on to form some of the world’s most successful start-ups. This article aims to detail some of the skills that the IDF gives its soldiers that enable their start-up success.

Initiative 

The military encourages soldiers to take initiative, which helps to build a mindset that is well-suited for entrepreneurship. Entrepreneurs need to be able to take initiative and make decisive action. These skills can be built in the army, where initiative is rewarded.

Project Management

“Project management is an important skill in the army, and in business,” explains Alfie Usher, the founder of Forces Compare, a British price comparison site for the armed forces.

“Entrepreneurs need to manage teams and bring products to market, managing complex tasks with multiple moving parts.” 

“Soldiers learn how to coordinate resources, set goals, and measure progress. All of these skills are highly applicable to the start-up world.”

Software Development

Soldiers in the famous Unit 8200, and other technology units, learn a wide range of software development skills, including programming languages, software design, and web development. 

These soldiers are trained to develop and maintain complex systems, and to work with a wide range of technologies. As software development is a key component of many startups, this background can be a huge springboard for entrepreneurs looking to get involved with or to found tech start-ups.

Data Analysis

Soldiers learn to analyse large amounts of data and extract insights while serving in Israel’s technological units. This is a valuable skill for startups that rely on data-driven decision-making. 

Soldiers learn how to use data to identify patterns, predict trends and make decisions. This skill set is in high demand in today’s data-driven world, and is highly valuable for startups in a wide range of industries.

Cybersecurity

“Soldiers may have to consider signals intelligence and cyber warfare. These skills are highly transferable to startups,” explains Rosie Koch, of Rosca Technologies – “where they may benefit from knowing about cybersecurity and how to protect systems from cyber attacks.”

“This skill set is highly valuable for startups in the tech industry, as well as for startups in other industries that rely on technology to conduct business, and therefore need to secure their networks and systems.”

Teamwork

Soldiers are required to work in teams and work well with others. Sometimes, soldiers will be given the opportunity to lead their own teams. They need to be able to communicate effectively and work towards a common goal with their peers.

This skill set is highly valuable for entrepreneurs who need to build and manage teams in order to successfully run their start-ups. Additionally, when soldiers leave the army, they leave with a network of close contacts that they can work with in their future business endeavours. 

Entrepreneurial Mindset

In the IDF, soldiers are exposed to the business world through programs such as the “Entrepreneurs in Training” program. This program is designed to help soldiers to develop business ideas and connect with potential investors. This helps to build the entrepreneurial mindset, which is critical for success as an entrepreneur.