Israel is often known as the startup nation whose high-tech products are its biggest export. However, many are not aware that a major driver of the economy is its small businesses, employing 42% of the population. The issue of financial inclusion is one of great struggle. Many families, small businesses and nonprofits are marginalized by the concentrated banking system, unable to access needed credit.

Unlike the US, where regulation exists to ensure banks have a community approach to banking with underserved populations, in Israel social lenders are at the forefront of lending to those denied affordable credit. Ogen is Israel’s largest and most prominent nonprofit lender.

Join us for a conversation with Eldan Kaye, the organization’s VP Partnerships & Development. Eldan will give us insight into the inclusion issue and share cases from the field of the current economic crises overwhelming the country since October 7th.