By the FL Innovation News editorial team · Thought Leadership
Building Bridges Between Israel and Florida
Since its launch in 2017, the Florida-Israel Business Accelerator (FIBA) has been a catalyst for bringing Israeli startups into the U.S. market, with more than 40 companies establishing a presence statewide and 17 settling in Tampa Bay. At the forefront of this mission is Rakefet Bachur-Phillips, Co-Executive Director of FIBA, whose expertise in marketing and international business development has helped position Tampa Bay as a hub for global innovation.
A Career Rooted in Global Perspective
Born near Tel Aviv, Bachur-Phillips began her career at Talia Technology, an Israeli medical device startup, where she gained firsthand experience in the challenges of bringing health innovations to market. She went on to establish the company’s U.S. subsidiary in Tampa, giving her unique insight into the process of expanding Israeli companies into Florida.
After earning a master’s degree in marketing from the University of Tampa, she took on a senior role at BayCare Health System, where she oversaw marketing campaigns for Florida’s largest healthcare network. Her work, particularly in women and children’s services, earned industry recognition for its innovation and impact.
Shaping FIBA’s Mission
In 2016, Bachur-Phillips joined FIBA’s founding team, playing a critical role in building its foundation and shaping its mission. She has been instrumental in recruiting dozens of Israeli startups and connecting them with resources in Florida, including mentorship, office space, and introductions to local companies.
“Helping Israeli startups establish roots in Florida is about more than just business,” said Bachur-Phillips. “It’s about creating lasting partnerships that contribute to regional growth and innovation.”
Her leadership has not only supported the growth of early-stage businesses but also strengthened the region’s ties to Israel’s thriving innovation ecosystem. In 2023, her contributions were recognized when she was named Business Woman of the Year by the Tampa Bay Business Journal.
Driving Regional Growth Through Innovation
Under Bachur-Phillips’ guidance, FIBA has become a bridge between two dynamic economies, providing Israeli startups with a gateway to the U.S. while bringing fresh technology and talent into Florida. Companies supported by the accelerator span industries including healthcare, cybersecurity, and hospitality, creating new opportunities for collaboration and contributing to Tampa Bay’s reputation as a center for entrepreneurship.
Rakefet Bachur-Phillips’ work at FIBA demonstrates the power of combining international experience with local leadership. By helping Israeli startups establish roots in Florida and strengthening connections between the two regions, she has contributed to both the growth of Tampa Bay’s innovation economy and the broader story of how global partnerships drive regional success.
