BIRD Foundation: Advancing U.S.-Israel Technological Collaboration

BIRD, which stands for Binational Industrial Research and Development, is an esteemed foundation established in 1977 through a collaborative initiative between the governments of the United States and Israel. The primary objective of BIRD is to facilitate productive partnerships between Israeli and American technology companies, thereby fostering an environment of mutual benefit and innovation. This foundation plays a pivotal role in enhancing the technological ecosystems of both nations by supporting strategic fields including agriculture, communications, construction technologies, electronics, electro-optics, life sciences, software, national security, and renewable energy. Notably, BIRD provides substantial financial assistance, covering up to 50% of the development costs for specific projects, with a maximum funding limit of one million dollars per initiative. As outlined by Jaron Lotan, the Executive Director of BIRD, “the technological ecosystem of both countries has assets that, when working together, create value for both.” This collaborative spirit is exemplified by the foundation’s support of approximately 30 projects each year. The cumulative sales generated from products developed through BIRD projects have surpassed an impressive $10 billion, showcasing the significant economic impact of these collaborations. BIRD has been instrumental in advancing initiatives involving notable entities such as the American Red Cross, Avaya, Bayer Pharmaceutical, General Electric, IBM, Motorola, and SanDisk. In recent developments, BIRD has expanded its reach to include partnerships such as the one between Israel Aerospace Industry (IAI) and the American startup MELD PrintWorks, which focuses on the innovative application of 3D printing technology for metal components in civil aviation. This marks a significant step in the ongoing endeavor to leverage technology for enhanced efficiency and effectiveness in various sectors. In conclusion, the BIRD foundation continues to serve as a vital conduit for technological cooperation between Israel and the United States, driving both innovation and economic prosperity in an increasingly interconnected global landscape.

Original Source: aurora-israel.co.il