Israeli Venture Capital: An Overview Like the technology boom that is driving it, the Israeli venture capital industry is thriving. In 1991 Israel claimed only one venture capital fund, while today there are more than 75 funds investing over $2.8 billion. John Sculley, former CEO of Apple Computer and venture capital activist in Israel, observed, "Israel in the late '90s reminds me of the dynamism and excitement of Silicon Valley in the early '80s. Some of the most exciting developments in the industry are taking place in Israel." Increased interaction with US- and European-based investors is adding to the visibility of venture capital in Israel. Venture capitalists are attracted to the strong base of high-tech research and development in Israel. Israel's center of technology is termed Silicon Wadi, alluding to the dried up riverbeds that mark the land. Arid Silicon Wadi is fertile