The Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI) accelerator is launching a new cohort
The accelerator is designed for companies in the fields of defense, aviation, and space. Each cohort includes only four startups. Selected companies will receive financial and strategic support. “A real answer to the challenges startups in these sectors face.”
The ASTRA acceleration program, led by Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI) and the global accelerator firm Starburst, is launching its seventh cohort in Israel and is inviting early-stage startups and entrepreneurs to apply. ASTRA is the only dedicated program in Israel targeting startups in the fields of aviation, space, defense, and dual-use technologies that serve both military and civilian applications.
The program spans seven months, including five months of “bootcamp” followed by two additional months of support. Only four companies are accepted per cohort to ensure a focused and personalized approach. Selected startups may receive a support package valued at $200,000, half as financial investment and half as strategic assistance, including mentoring, business development, and hands-on fundraising support.
ASTRA is seeking startups in areas such as aerospace systems, air defense, autonomy, satellite communication, advanced sensors, critical infrastructure, and resilient technologies. Participating startups will gain access to IAI’s top technological experts, conduct technological feasibility tests, and engage with leading global partners including Raytheon, Airbus, and Northrop Grumman.
Beyond technical support, ASTRA emphasizes strategic focus, refining product-market fit, sharpening go-to-market strategy, and shortening time to revenue and engagement with decision-makers. Startups also benefit from exposure to investors and VCs in Israel and abroad, as well as participation in major industry events, airshows, and business networking.
The upcoming cohort is scheduled to begin in summer 2025 and will be hosted at ASTRA’s innovation hub in the Midtown Tower in Tel Aviv, a collaborative space at the heart of Israel’s high-tech ecosystem.
Noemie Alliel, Managing Director of Starburst Israel, shared:
“Our program is designed to truly address the pain points that startups in these sectors face – from lack of early funding, long sales cycles, to the challenge of entering complex and conservative markets. ASTRA connects startups to the defense, governmental, and commercial ecosystem, and provides the critical support that can transform their growth trajectory.”
