InsurTech as a Bridge Builder: Kobi Bendelak on Israel, Switzerland and New Hubs

Israel is considered one of the most dynamic InsurTech markets in the world. In an interview with Philippe Séjalon (The INGAGE Institute) and Binci Heeb (thebrokernews), Kobi Bendelak, founder of InsurTech Israel, explains how start-ups gain trust, why Switzerland is an important bridge to Europe and which new hubs are set to expand the global ecosystem.

After 22 years of service in the Israeli army, Kobi Bendelak began his career in the insurance industry, first as an agent and later as an entrepreneur. His company developed into one of the largest Managing General Agents (MGA) in Israel before he retired after selling it to Generali in 2016. But his passion for innovation and growth never left him.

He founded InsurTech Israel in 2017 on the belief that technology will fundamentally change the insurance industry. After a career in Israel’s army and as an insurance agent and entrepreneur, Bendelak founded Today, Israel is considered one of the most vibrant InsurTech ecosystems: over 250 startups, international VCs and a close interaction between the military, universities and high-tech corporations.

Switzerland as a hub for Europe

Switzerland is a natural anchor point for many Israeli start-ups: “There are numerous international insurers here, our partner Swiss InsurTech Hub (SIH) and a stable environment. “For our founders, Switzerland is a great place to gain a foothold in Europe, despite the high cost of living, which we already know from Tel Aviv,” says Bendelak.

Accelerator program creates global connections

With the Global Accelerator Program, InsurTech Israel connects young companies with insurers worldwide. After stations in Munich and the USA, the program is now expanding into new markets: Guatemala was opened as a hub for Central America in April. Eastern Europe will follow in 2026 and Africa a year later. “We are looking for regions with qualified talent, a stable insurance industry and a central location. This creates a global network for innovation,” explains Bendelak.

Global hubs and accelerator programs

Kobi Bendelak relies on strategically selected locations for insurtech hubs. Currently in Israel, since April 1 in Guatemala, in 2026 in Eastern Europe and the following year in Africa. With a global accelerator program, he promotes start-ups that develop innovative solutions for the insurance industry. Qualified teams, a deep understanding of the industry and trust are the keys to success.

Trust as the key to success

But technology alone is not enough. “Insurance is a business of trust. Start-ups need to speak the language of the industry and really understand how insurance works. This is the only way to build sustainable partnerships,” emphasizes Bendelak. For him, InsurTech is more than just insurance technology. Whether cybersecurity, AI or healthcare solutions, if the innovation advances the industry, it is part of the ecosystem. The use of AI tools enables start-ups worldwide to be successful, even from less developed regions.

Optimism and passion as success factors

Kobi Bendelak emphasizes: “If you really want something, you can do it.” His experience shows that, in addition to hard work, a positive attitude and a strong network are crucial. With Insurtech Israel, he is not only promoting technology, but also trust and professionalism in the global insurance world.

Common mentality

Despite all the differences, Bendelak sees parallels between Israel and Switzerland: entrepreneurial spirit, a willingness to take risks and the ability to deal with challenging conditions. “In the end, it’s the attitude that counts: work hard, stay positive and build networks. Then you can build bridges from Tel Aviv to Zurich and beyond.”

Binci Heeb

Read also: InsurTech Israel: Kobi Bendelak is CEO and founder