50:50 Startups

50:50 Startups is more than a technology incubator—it’s where young adult Israelis, Palestinians, and Palestinian citizens of Israel connect, collaborate, and build startups from the ground up.

It was founded in 2019 to create equal business opportunities for Israelis and Palestinians.

Co-Director Shai Friedman says:

“At 50:50 Startups, we believe that equal partnership is a powerful driver of both business and social change in the Middle East. By building companies together, Israeli and Palestinian entrepreneurs not only create livelihoods but also reduce antagonism through cooperation. Our programs foster innovation, lower barriers, and cultivate creativity and mutual respect. Through shared experiences of risk-taking, failure, and success, participants develop lasting trust and a strong foundation for economic prosperity in the region.” www.5050startups.org



photo by permission of Lindsey Zemler

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