Finance Ministry Launches NIS 1.6B High-Tech Aid Package

The Finance Ministry and Israel Innovation Authority launched an immediate NIS 1.6 billion package for export-oriented high-tech and industrial companies hit by the shekel's rapid appreciation. Official materials allocate about NIS 1 billion to fast-track matching grants for early-stage and growth companies, plus NIS 175 million for advanced manufacturing equipment, NIS 25 million for exporter support, NIS 10 million for employer-led training and an expanded accelerated-depreciation benefit estimated at NIS 360 million. Smotrich framed the strong shekel as a sign of Israeli economic strength but said exporters need time to adapt. The package protects a strategic growth engine while keeping jobs and R&D in Israel.