Full Breakdown
Empowering Women Entrepreneurs: The 2026 Next-Gen Women Entrepreneurship Award
2/19/2026, 8:53:58 PM
Overview of the Competition
On March 24, 2026, the Women Leader Summit in Tel Aviv will host the Next-Gen Women Entrepreneurship Award, an initiative sponsored by The Luzzatto Group. This competition aims to elevate women entrepreneurs by providing them a platform to present their innovative ideas to a live audience and a panel of judges. The winner will not only gain media exposure through an interview and feature article on jpost.com but will also receive expert guidance on intellectual property (IP) strategy, including assistance with drafting a provisional patent application.
The Importance of Intellectual Property
Tamar Luzzatto, an attorney and a key figure at The Luzzatto Group, emphasizes the significance of intellectual property as a business asset and a marketing tool. She states, “For us, intellectual property is not a trivial matter. It’s how you claim ownership of your innovation, and your story.” The competition was established to address the stark gender imbalance in the field of intellectual property, where over 80% of inventors globally are men, according to the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO). Luzzatto notes that this disparity has tangible business implications, affecting fundraising, partnerships, and overall valuation for women-led ventures.
Addressing Gender Disparities
Dr. Esther Luzzatto, CEO of The Luzzatto Group, highlights the organization's commitment to advancing women in innovation and strengthening Israel's geographic periphery. She points out that the competition arose from the realization that women often hesitate to take credit for their ideas or to apply for opportunities. “Men are often more comfortable stepping forward. Women tend to hesitate,” Tamar Luzzatto explains. This hesitation is viewed as a significant barrier to growth, prompting the organizers to encourage women to participate actively. “The message I always repeat is simple: just apply,” she urges potential candidates.
Selection Criteria and Judging Process
The competition will select three start-ups from various sectors, including biotech, medtech, agtech, foodtech, fintech, energy, climate, and communications. Each selected entrepreneur will have three minutes to pitch their company. The selection process evaluates not only the business idea but also the entrepreneur's motivation and potential for success. The judges will look for a combination of innovative concepts and realistic business feasibility, asking themselves, “Do we believe in this person?”
Conclusion: A Transformative Opportunity
The Next-Gen Women Entrepreneurship Award represents a strategic effort to empower women entrepreneurs by providing them with essential resources and visibility. As Tamar Luzzatto articulates, the professional IP package offered to the winner is not merely a luxury but a foundational step for growth. This initiative aims to bridge the gender gap in innovation and ensure that women entrepreneurs receive the recognition and support they deserve.
