Israel Launches National AI Supercomputer for Researchers

Israel just solved a problem that's been holding back tech companies and researchers everywhere: access to affordable, powerful AI computing.

The country launched a national supercomputer available to startups and universities at subsidized rates, announced the Israel Innovation Authority on Sunday. The system packs 1,000 Nvidia B200 accelerators, the kind of high-powered processors that are in such high demand globally that prices have skyrocketed and wait times stretch for months.

Seventy percent of the computing power will go to tech companies developing AI models, while the remaining 30% supports academic researchers in early-stage work. Companies and research teams can now apply for access, requesting anywhere from 16 to eight accelerators for periods ranging from one month to six months.

"The launch of the national supercomputer for use by industry and academia is a key step in strengthening Israel's R&D infrastructure for artificial intelligence," said Dror Bin, CEO of the Israel Innovation Authority. The goal is simple: let Israeli innovators train large AI models without the crushing costs that smaller players face in the global market.

The initiative is part of Israel's Telem Program, a national effort to build AI research and development infrastructure. If requests exceed available capacity, a committee will evaluate applications based on innovation potential, business viability, and the applicant's technical capabilities.

The Ripple Effect

Beyond just providing computer chips, Israel is investing in the people who'll use them. Two new programs launched alongside the supercomputer aim to grow the country's AI talent pool.

One program helps professionals with advanced degrees transition into AI-related fields. The other recruits AI experts from abroad, including Israelis working overseas, Jewish professionals, and international specialists willing to relocate.

Together, these efforts address both sides of the innovation equation: giving researchers the tools they need and training more people to use them. For a small country competing in the global tech race, democratizing access to expensive AI infrastructure could help level the playing field against tech giants with deeper pockets.

The programs begin accepting applications immediately, with approved projects starting no earlier than the month following committee review.

Israel is betting that shared national resources can keep its innovation engine running in the AI age.