High-Tech for a Higher Cause
Innovators for Israel challenges BGU students and alumni to solve government ministries’ problems by developing new digital tools.
First-place winners get full scholarships for tuition or a monetary award in that amount,* as well as help from Google mentors in starting their own company. But all participants gain an experience that can open doors to great opportunities.
*Monetary awards are granted to BGU alumni.
Why It’s More Than Just a Contest
Students Think Innovation isn’t about grades—it’s about getting ahead. Learn the tech that companies actually use, work side-by-side with Google experts and gov insiders, and build real-world experience that makes every CV pop.
Exposure to Cutting-Edge Innovation
Learn about tools that are transforming the way we do business and leveraging advanced technologies.
Access to High-Tech Leaders
Improve your solution—and your skills and knowledge—through mentorship from Google and Israel’s National Digital Authority.
Opportunities in the Public Sector
Make connections in government ministries that can lead to job offers after graduation and fulfilling long-term careers.
Experience Working in a Team
Gain soft skills employers say they want most, including collaboration, problem solving, and good communication.
Build Something That Actually Matters
Students develop real solutions to real challenges—from AI-powered archives to smarter cities—that make a national impact.
A Direct Line to Google
Gain access to exclusive Google workshops and tools used by top professionals—your shortcut to global tech exposure.
A Launchpad for Future Teams
Work with a mix of developers, creatives, and strategists—many teams keep building long after the program ends.
Learning Through Action
No lectures here. Just real-world building, feedback from experts, and a hands-on crash course in innovation.
"After October 7th, this project felt even more urgent—helping uncover hidden Holocaust stories using technology is something we take personally."
"We cracked the tech to trace pollution sources precisely—something even the experts said was still an open scientific challenge."
Everything You Wanted to Ask
Who can enter the contest?
Any current or former BGU student is eligible to join a contest team, along with current students from other Israeli universities. Every team must have at least 2 current BGU students, however, and no more than 4 participants.
Do I need to know how to code?
While not everyone in the team needs to know how to code, all team members should be comfortable with and open to learning new technology. Remember: If your team is selected for the contest, it will have to develop a tool, service, application, or website. This means that a minimum condition for entry is proven technological ability.
How much time will I need to invest in the contest?
If your team is selected to continue into the contest’s second stage, you will need to agree to twice-weekly meetings and a number of workshops and training sessions over the course of 5 months. There may also be extra time required for the development of your digital solution and preparation of contest materials.
What kind of challenges do teams solve?
All kinds, from a campaign to encourage citizens to take public transportation to a model for forecasting urban crime. With almost ten different government ministries participating in the IforI contest, there’s a good chance you’ll find one that matches your interests and advances a cause you care about.
Can I present an idea for a digital solution that’s unrelated to one of the contest challenges?
Yes! Teams are welcome to propose their own digital solutions, so long as they focus on improving public-sector efficiency.