Tel Aviv has emerged as a global hub for private equity, attracting top-tier firms like Viola Group, FIMI Opportunity Funds, and Vertex Ventures Israel. These firms leverage the city’s robust technological ecosystem, entrepreneurial spirit, and deep talent pool to invest in high-potential startups across diverse sectors such as cybersecurity, fintech, and enterprise software. With a thriving innovation landscape, Tel Aviv offers private equity investors unparalleled opportunities for growth and strategic investments. Join our community of like-minded business leaders at alexejpikovsky.com/community.
Viola Group
Investment Style: Viola Group focuses on multiple independent investment arms, including Viola Ventures (early-stage startups), Viola Credit (growth and venture lending), and Viola Growth (technology-focused growth capital and buyout fund). They target sectors like fintech, SaaS, and deep tech, providing capital for expansion and strategic support to enhance company value.
Portfolio Companies: Viola Group’s portfolio includes companies such as Payoneer (global payment platform), Outbrain (content discovery platform), SimilarWeb (web analytics service), ironSource (app monetization platform), and Redis Labs (real-time data platform).
Founding Date: 2000
Number of Investment Professionals: 7
Assets Under Management: Approximately $3 billion
Key Investment Professionals:
- Shlomo Dovrat, Co-Founder: Dovrat leads strategic initiatives and investments in the technology sector, leveraging his extensive experience in building successful tech companies.
- Harel Beit-On, Founder and General Partner: Focused on investments in software and internet companies, Beit-On brings valuable insights into scaling global businesses.
- Daniel Tsiddon, General Partner: Tsiddon specializes in fintech investments and plays a key role in driving innovation within Viola’s portfolio companies.
Recent Exits:
- ironSource merged with Unity Technologies in a $4.4 billion deal, enhancing the reach and capabilities of both companies in the gaming and monetization space.
- Payoneer went public through a SPAC merger with FTAC Olympus Acquisition Corp, valuing the company at $3.3 billion.
Recent Investments:
- Lusha, a B2B data enrichment platform, to boost its global expansion efforts.
- ActiveFence, a company specializing in online threat detection solutions, to support its growth across various verticals.
Office Locations:
- Tel Aviv (Headquarters): Tel Aviv, Israel
- Additional Offices: New York, Herzliya
Website: www.viola-group.com
Quote: “Viola is committed to partnering with visionary entrepreneurs to build technology companies that lead their industries. Our deep sector expertise and ability to provide growth capital allow us to be an effective partner in scaling businesses globally.” – Shlomo Dovrat, Co-Founder
FIMI Opportunity Funds
Investment Style: FIMI Opportunity Funds specializes in buyouts and growth capital investments in industrial and technology sectors. They focus on turning around underperforming businesses and enhancing operational efficiencies.
Portfolio Companies: FIMI’s portfolio includes Ham-Let (precision flow control solutions), Tadir-Gan (automotive parts manufacturer), Magal Security Systems (perimeter security and surveillance), G4S Israel (security services), and Orbit Technologies (satellite communications).
Founding Date: 1996
Number of Investment Professionals: Over 25
Assets Under Management: Approximately $3.5 billion
Key Investment Professionals:
- Yochai Gafni, Partner: Gafni has a focus on strategic investments and portfolio management, particularly in industrial sectors.
- Eyal Lifschitz, Senior Partner: With expertise in corporate finance, Lifschitz guides FIMI’s investments in technology and manufacturing companies.
Recent Exits:
- Sold a majority stake in Magal Security Systems to Senstar Technologies.
- Exited investment in G4S Israel through a sale to Allied Universal, enhancing its security service capabilities.
Recent Investments:
- Increased stake in Hadera Paper, focusing on expanding production and market reach.
- Acquired Nistec, a provider of electronic manufacturing services, to diversify its industrial holdings.
Office Locations:
- Tel Aviv (Headquarters): Tel Aviv, Israel
Website: www.fimi.co.il
Quote: “Our approach is rooted in driving value through active management and strategic growth initiatives. FIMI’s success lies in its ability to enhance the operational and financial performance of its portfolio companies.” – Yochai Gafni, Partner
Israel Growth Partners (IGP)
Investment Style: Israel Growth Partners focuses on growth-stage investments in technology and software companies. They support companies with proven products and market traction to scale globally.
Portfolio Companies: IGP’s portfolio includes Earnix (insurance and banking solutions), SysAid (IT service management solutions), Cyberint (cyber threat intelligence), Exaware (networking solutions), and Workiz (field service management software).
Founding Date: 2014
Number of Investment Professionals: Over 15
Assets Under Management: Approximately $500 million
Key Investment Professionals:
- Haim Shani, Co-Founder and General Partner: Shani has extensive experience in scaling technology companies and shaping growth strategies.
- Moshe Lichtman, Co-Founder and General Partner: Lichtman leverages his background in technology development to support portfolio companies in product innovation.
Recent Exits:
- SysAid was acquired by a leading private equity firm, marking a significant milestone in IGP’s investment journey.
Recent Investments:
- Invested in GuardKnox, a provider of automotive cybersecurity solutions, to enhance its product offering and market reach.
- Supported Workiz in expanding its field service management capabilities and customer base.
Office Locations:
- Tel Aviv (Headquarters): Tel Aviv, Israel
Website: www.igpcapital.com
Quote: “IGP is committed to empowering Israeli tech companies to become global industry leaders. Our hands-on approach and deep sector knowledge allow us to drive transformative growth for our portfolio companies.” – Haim Shani, Co-Founder and General Partner
Vertex Ventures Israel
Investment Style: Vertex Ventures Israel focuses on early and growth-stage investments in technology sectors, including enterprise IT, cybersecurity, and fintech. They emphasize strong partnerships and strategic value addition to foster company growth.
Portfolio Companies: Vertex Ventures’ portfolio includes Waze (navigation app, acquired by Google), SolarEdge (smart energy solutions), CyberArk (cybersecurity), Cyberbit (cybersecurity training), and Taboola (content discovery platform).
Founding Date: 1997
Number of Investment Professionals: Over 25
Assets Under Management: Approximately $1.2 billion
Key Investment Professionals:
- Yanai Oron, General Partner: Oron specializes in scaling tech startups and guiding them through successful exits.
- Ronen Nir, General Partner: Nir focuses on enterprise software investments, leveraging his experience to drive innovation and growth.
Recent Exits:
- Exited investment in Waze through its sale to Google, a landmark achievement for Vertex Ventures.
- Taboola went public via a merger with ION Acquisition Corp 1 Ltd, enhancing its market presence.
Recent Investments:
- Invested in Axonius, a cybersecurity asset management platform, to support its technological advancements and market expansion.
- Backed Redis Labs in its development of next-generation data solutions and global market penetration.
Office Locations:
- Tel Aviv (Headquarters): Tel Aviv, Israel
Website: www.vertexventures.com
Quote: “At Vertex Ventures, we believe in empowering visionary entrepreneurs by providing the capital, expertise, and network needed to transform their innovative ideas into successful companies.” – Yanai Oron, General Partner
JVP (Jerusalem Venture Partners)
Investment Style: JVP focuses on early to growth-stage investments, primarily in cybersecurity, media, and big data sectors. They leverage their extensive network and industry knowledge to create significant value for their portfolio companies.
Portfolio Companies: JVP’s portfolio includes CyberArk (privileged access management), AnyClip (video content platform), Earnix (software for financial services), ControlUp (IT performance monitoring), and ThetaRay (AI-based fraud detection).
Founding Date: 1993
Number of Investment Professionals: Over 30
Assets Under Management: Approximately $1.4 billion
Key Investment Professionals:
- Erel Margalit, Founder and Chairman: Margalit is instrumental in shaping the strategic direction of JVP and driving significant social and economic impact through investments.
- Fiona Darmon, General Partner: Darmon focuses on investments in disruptive technologies and fostering strong industry partnerships.
Recent Exits:
- CyberArk successfully went public, establishing itself as a leader in cybersecurity solutions.
- AnyClip was acquired by a strategic buyer, enhancing its capabilities in video content management.
Recent Investments:
- Invested in ControlUp to expand its IT monitoring and management platform globally.
- Supported ThetaRay in scaling its AI-driven fraud detection and prevention solutions.
Office Locations:
- Jerusalem (Headquarters): Jerusalem, Israel
- Additional Offices: New York, Beer Sheva
Website: www.jvpvc.com
Quote: “JVP is dedicated to transforming promising technology companies into global leaders by providing them with the strategic guidance, capital, and connections required to scale.” – Erel Margalit, Founder and Chairman
Pitango Venture Capital
Investment Style: Pitango Venture Capital invests in early to growth-stage companies across various industries, with a focus on technology, healthcare, and consumer sectors. They support entrepreneurs with strategic guidance and a global network to accelerate growth.
Portfolio Companies: Pitango’s portfolio includes Vayyar Imaging (3D imaging sensors), Via Transportation (ride-sharing platform), AppsFlyer (mobile attribution and analytics), Riskified (e-commerce fraud prevention), and Duda (website development platform).
Founding Date: 1993
Number of Investment Professionals: Over 40
Assets Under Management: Approximately $2 billion
Key Investment Professionals:
- Chemi Peres, Co-Founder and Managing Partner: Peres has played a pivotal role in Pitango’s growth and success, focusing on strategic investments and industry partnerships.
- Rami Kalish, Co-Founder and Managing Partner: Kalish leads investments in technology-driven sectors, leveraging his vast experience to identify and nurture high-potential companies.
Recent Exits:
- Riskified went public, affirming its leadership in fraud prevention solutions for e-commerce.
- AppsFlyer secured a significant investment, enhancing its capabilities in mobile analytics and marketing.
Recent Investments:
- Invested in Vayyar Imaging to advance its 3D imaging technology for various applications.
- Backed Via Transportation in expanding its ride-sharing and transit solutions globally.
Office Locations:
- Herzliya (Headquarters): Herzliya, Israel
- Additional Offices: Palo Alto, New York
Website: www.pitango.com
Quote: “At Pitango, we believe in empowering visionary entrepreneurs by providing them with the strategic support and resources they need to build successful, industry-defining companies.” – Chemi Peres, Co-Founder and Managing Partner
OurCrowd
Investment Style: OurCrowd is a global venture investing platform that empowers accredited investors to invest in startups and venture funds. They focus on a wide array of sectors, including technology, healthcare, and environmental solutions.
Portfolio Companies: OurCrowd’s portfolio includes Beyond Meat (plant-based meat substitutes), Lemonade (insurance technology), Innoviz Technologies (LiDAR solutions), Jump Bikes (electric bike-sharing, acquired by Uber), and Insightec (medical technology).
Founding Date: 2013
Number of Investment Professionals: Over 100
Assets Under Management: Approximately $2 billion
Key Investment Professionals:
- Jon Medved, Founder and CEO: Medved is a well-known venture capitalist and entrepreneur, leading OurCrowd’s global investment strategy and platform development.
- Alec Ellison, Chairman of OurCrowd USA: Ellison has a deep background in financial services and technology investments, steering OurCrowd’s expansion in the U.S.
Recent Exits:
- Beyond Meat went public, achieving significant market recognition as a leader in plant-based food solutions.
- Lemonade IPO marked a successful exit, positioning it as a disruptor in the insurance sector.
Recent Investments:
- Invested in Innoviz Technologies to advance its autonomous vehicle and LiDAR technology.
- Backed Insightec in enhancing its medical technology solutions for non-invasive surgeries.
Office Locations:
- Jerusalem (Headquarters): Jerusalem, Israel
- Additional Offices: New York, San Francisco, Toronto, London, Madrid, Hong Kong, Singapore
Website: www.ourcrowd.com
Quote: “OurCrowd revolutionizes venture capital by providing a platform that democratizes access to high-quality investments, allowing investors to participate directly in the growth journeys of innovative companies.” – Jon Medved, Founder and CEO
Vintage Investment Partners
Investment Style: Vintage Investment Partners is a leading secondary fund and fund of funds focused on technology investments. They provide liquidity solutions to private equity investors and invest in venture capital and growth equity funds.
Portfolio Companies: Through its fund investments, Vintage’s indirect portfolio includes companies such as Checkmarx (application security software), IronSource (app monetization), Fiverr (freelance services marketplace), Outbrain (content discovery), and WalkMe (digital adoption platform).
Founding Date: 2003
Number of Investment Professionals: Over 30
Assets Under Management: Approximately $4 billion
Key Investment Professionals:
- Alan Feld, Founder and Managing Partner: Feld leads Vintage’s investment strategy and has extensive experience in venture capital and private equity.
- Asher Dahan, Managing Partner: Dahan focuses on secondary transactions and liquidity solutions for investors in private equity funds.
Recent Exits:
- Checkmarx was acquired by Hellman & Friedman, highlighting Vintage’s successful secondary fund strategy.
- Fiverr went public, achieving significant growth and market expansion post-IPO.
Recent Investments:
- Increased exposure to IronSource through secondary market transactions to support its market growth.
- Invested in WalkMe to enhance its digital adoption platform capabilities and global reach.
Office Locations:
- Herzliya (Headquarters): Herzliya, Israel
- Additional Offices: New York
Website: www.vintage-ip.com
Quote: “Vintage Investment Partners is committed to providing investors with access to top-tier venture funds and secondary market opportunities, enabling them to benefit from the growth of the technology sector.” – Alan Feld, Founder and Managing Partner
Glilot Capital Partners
Investment Style: Glilot Capital Partners focuses on early-stage investments in technology startups, particularly in cybersecurity, enterprise software, and artificial intelligence. They actively partner with entrepreneurs to enhance product-market fit and scale operations.
Portfolio Companies: Glilot’s portfolio includes LightCyber (behavioral attack detection, acquired by Palo Alto Networks), CyberX (IoT security, acquired by Microsoft), Fireblocks (digital asset security platform), CardinalOps (security automation), and Talon Cyber Security (browser-based security solutions).
Founding Date: 2011
Number of Investment Professionals: Over 20
Assets Under Management: Approximately $500 million
Key Investment Professionals:
- Kobi Samboursky, Co-Founder and Managing Partner: Samboursky specializes in cybersecurity and enterprise software investments, supporting startups through strategic growth phases.
- Arik Kleinstein, Co-Founder and Managing Partner: Kleinstein has a strong background in software development and investment, focusing on AI-driven technologies.
Recent Exits:
- LightCyber was acquired by Palo Alto Networks, enhancing its cybersecurity product offerings.
- CyberX was acquired by Microsoft, integrating its IoT security capabilities into Microsoft’s Azure platform.
Recent Investments:
- Backed Fireblocks to develop its secure digital asset platform for financial institutions.
- Invested in Talon Cyber Security to advance its browser-based security solutions for enterprise applications.
Office Locations:
- Herzliya (Headquarters): Herzliya, Israel
Website: www.glilotcapital.com
Quote: “Glilot Capital Partners is dedicated to accelerating the growth of technology startups by providing them with the capital and strategic guidance needed to achieve market leadership.” – Kobi Samboursky, Co-Founder and Managing Partner
Conclusion
Tel Aviv’s private equity landscape continues to evolve, reflecting Israel’s dynamic tech ecosystem. These firms play a crucial role in nurturing and scaling promising ventures, driving economic growth and innovation. As the market matures, we can expect more sophisticated investment strategies and increased global interest in the region’s entrepreneurial potential.
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