Mind the Tech NY
"Birthright’s Excel program is the Iron Dome of business of the Jewish people"
Taglit-Birthright International CEO Gidi Mark spoke at Calcalist and Bank Leumi's Mind the Tech NY 2025 conference about the importance of the program for training the next generation of leaders and strengthening their connection to Israel and Judaism.
Leading with Impact Panel
(Tomeriko)
Gidi Mark, International CEO of Birthright Israel, said during a panel at the Mind the Tech NY 2025 conference, hosted by Calcalist and Bank Leumi in New York, that "Birthright’s Excel program is the Iron Dome of business of the Jewish people." He was joined on the panel by Dean Sysman, founder and CEO of the cyber unicorn Axonius, and Tali Miller, a partner at Avid Ventures—both of whom are Birthright alumni. Ariela Karmel of Calcalist moderated the discussion.
Mark explained that the Excel program was created in recognition of the need to develop Jewish leadership outside of Israel. "We are looking for individuals who will become business leaders, strengthen their Jewish identity, and contribute to the Jewish community. Many of our program graduates are now integral members of this network."
The impact of Excel
What do you think about the program?
Sysman: "For me, it was the first time I truly understood that people from a completely different country, which I thought I knew well, had a unique global perspective. The program taught me how to think internationally, build networks, foster business collaborations, and communicate with industry leaders. It played a key role in helping me launch one of the fastest-growing cyber companies."
Miller: "I participated in Excel after graduating from college and interned at Bessemer Venture Partners, an American VC firm with operations in Israel. The program had a profound and lasting impact on my career. Thanks to Excel, I secured a position at the fund, which became a stepping stone for my professional journey. The business network and relationships I built through the program are ones I still rely on today. I regularly speak with fellow alumni, connect investors, and seek out entrepreneurs like Dean."
Mark: "Each year, Birthright brings about 50,000 young Jews to Israel. After October 7, participation dropped to 20,000, and we had to work harder than ever. We realized that Excel's role was even more critical—connecting participants with Israeli businesses and empowering them to be advocates on U.S. campuses. Those who have interned in Israel often become influential figures in key spaces where Israel’s voice needs to be heard. They serve as ambassadors for Israel across the United States."
Excel in times of crisis
What was the impact of the program during this period?
Sysman: "When I founded both my previous and current company, we participated in the program, and many of our interns were Excel alumni. Some have since become entrepreneurs themselves. One former intern is now a senior vice president at a major company. The program fosters a deep and lasting network, and after October 7, we recognized more than ever the importance of taking pride in our identity and promoting Israeli innovation. We want to show the world the positive contributions we make, regardless of where we come from."
Miller: "I grew up in an Orthodox Jewish household, and Excel connected me with many Israelis. The friendships we formed evolved into a strong community, with many members now taking on leadership roles. Before October 7, Jewish identity was not necessarily a focal point for many, but since then, it has become central—our driving purpose. This community plays a crucial role in combating anti-Semitism."
Strengthening ties between Israel and the Jewish community
What do you think about the connection between Israel and the global Jewish community?
Mark: "We understood that we must not allow Israel to be isolated or boycotted. In response, we started bringing volunteers to Israel, and so far, we have brought 10,000 people. We are celebrating 25 years of Birthright, with 900,000 participants, and we are now on a fast track to reaching a million. The individuals in this program represent the future of the Jewish people."
Watch the full exchange in the video above.
