30U30 in Defense Returns – Bigger and Better for 2025

*In collaboration with Robel Innovations

Following the resounding success of last year’s event, the 30U30 in Defense competition returns in 2025 to celebrate Israel’s next generation of innovators, leaders, and changemakers in the defense, homeland security, and defense-tech industries.

The initiative, jointly organized by Robel Innovations and Israel Defense, seeks to spotlight 30 exceptional young men and women under the age of 30 who are shaping the future of Israel’s defense industry. Candidates will be selected based on significant achievements such as developing groundbreaking defense technologies, holding influential positions within the industry, making outstanding contributions during the “Iron Swords” war, and rising to leadership roles in defense-tech companies.

In 2024, the program highlighted an extraordinary cohort of young professionals from across the defense sector, many of whom have since achieved international recognition, positioning themselves as ambassadors of Israel’s next wave of defense-tech innovation.

Rotem Mey-Tal, CEO of Robel Innovations and founder of the competition, said:
“It’s a tremendous honor to launch the 2025 edition of 30U30 in Defense. Last year’s competition generated widespread excitement and dozens of applications, and I believe this year will be even bigger. The ‘Iron Swords’ war shifted the focus from Israel’s civilian high-tech sector to defense-tech. This competition reflects that trend, which I believe will only grow stronger. If Israel has long been known as the ‘Start-Up Nation,’ we are now on the path to becoming the ‘Defense-Tech Nation.’”

Amir Rapaport, founder and editor of Israel Defense, added:
“Each year, it becomes more challenging to select the most promising entrepreneurs. The defense-tech industry is experiencing rapid global growth. Alongside new funds and investors, we are seeing brilliant minds with bold ideas for military applications of advanced technologies and dual-use solutions. These innovators are attracting worldwide attention—not only in Israel. After last year’s success, many leaders in the field are eager to meet the 2025 cohort.”

Now is your chance to be recognized as one of Israel’s 30 most promising young leaders in defense.

Registration link:
https://www.robel-innovations.com/30under30/