Bhubaneswar, November 7: Odisha is exploring new opportunities for international business partnerships, technological innovation and investment through strengthened collaboration with Israel. A Business and Innovation Roundtable, held at O-Hub in Bhubaneswar on Friday brought together Israeli delegates, startup representatives, industry experts and state government officials to explore areas of mutual cooperation.

The event was jointly organised by Startup Odisha and the MSME Department of the state government with the objective of strengthening business ties and identifying opportunities for technological collaboration between Israel and Odisha.

Also Read: Odisha: Revenue Secretary calls for zero tolerance towards corruption

During the interaction, Israeli delegates engaged with Odisha-based startups and explored their innovative products and business solutions. Gilad Neuman, Managing Partner of the Social Accelerator at the Jewish People Policy Institute (JPPI), highlighted several potential areas of cooperation, including environmental protection, Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) initiatives, surveillance systems and drone technology.

Neuman also discussed the possibility of partnerships with O-Hub to promote startup development, incubation activities and innovation-driven entrepreneurship.

Startup Odisha CEO Smruti Ranjan Pradhan presented an overview of the state's growing startup ecosystem and highlighted the opportunities available for entrepreneurs and investors.

Mission Associate Saloni Mahapatra, Head of the NRDC Outreach Office Dr Bijay Kumar Sahu, graced the event and explained the background and objectives of the meeting. Bisasis Gantayat of HCL also attended the programme as an expert.

A special session at the roundtable focused on technology, digital innovation, sustainability and social entrepreneurship. Israeli delegates encouraged Odisha's startups to focus on developing practical, technology-driven solutions to address real-world challenges.

Investors and participants also expressed interest in exploring business opportunities in emerging sectors such as drone technology, healthcare and sustainable development.