Inside the US defense giant: CET Sandbox helps Israeli founders find their way in America

The US defense industrial base presents a unique challenge for Israeli start-ups looking to make their mark. Major contractors, acquisition offices, government agencies, and entrenched networks can create barriers for even the most promising companies with battlefield-proven technology. CET Sandbox was established to help Israeli founders navigate this maze and gain access to the US defense market.

The program brings over 60 Israeli entrepreneurs to Washington for a week, providing them with private receptions, curated introductions, and closed-door conversations with decision-makers in the US defense procurement process. CET Sandbox aims to give Israeli founders a playbook for translating battlefield-proven technology into successful American contracts.

David Yahid, co-founder and COO of CET, expressed satisfaction with the AUSA event, noting the level of engagement from the US side and the connections made by the founders. CET Sandbox connected Israeli entrepreneurs with major defense contractors like Anduril, Lockheed Martin, Northrop Grumman, and BAE Systems, as well as investors, government representatives, and industry specialists.

Avner Bendheim, co-founder and CEO of Tenna Systems, highlighted the importance of CET in helping Israeli founders understand who matters in the US defense ecosystem and how decisions are made. Bendheim's company specializes in software designed to safeguard wireless-dependent systems, a domain where connectivity has become increasingly critical and vulnerable.

CET Sandbox's approach is particularly valuable for Israeli start-ups operating in sectors where connectivity is essential but also poses significant risks. By facilitating connections with key stakeholders, CET Sandbox helps Israeli founders better navigate the complex and fragmented US defense market.