Subject: We Have Officially Launched! Become a Member, CO-IL Connects Program, and more…

We Have Officially Launched!

A Message from Our Founders

PHOTO: Over 130 attendees came together in downtown Denver on Dec. 3rd to celebrate the shared innovation and resilience of Colorado and Israel. The Colorado-Israel Chamber of Commerce (CO-IL) launch event was held at the offices of Hogan Lovells and included a lively panel discussion and presentations by NICE, an Israeli software and technology company with operations in Colorado, and Ibex Investors, a Denver-based fund investing in Israeli startup companies with offices in Tel Aviv.

Dear CO-IL Community,

As the year draws to a close, we’re filled with gratitude for the incredible momentum we’ve built together. From our unforgettable launch event to stories of resilience and opportunity, this month’s updates highlight the power of collaboration and the strength of our growing community.

Last week, we officially launched the Colorado-Israel Chamber of Commerce (CO-IL) at the stunning Hogan Lovells offices in downtown Denver. The evening was a powerful testament to the shared values of innovation and resilience that unite Colorado and Israel. From inspiring remarks by Colorado Governor Jared Polis and Israel Consul General Israel Bachar to dynamic discussions on the future of Colorado-Israel ties, the event showcased our mission in action.

As we look ahead, we’re excited to continue fostering meaningful partnerships, creating opportunities, and driving impact for businesses and communities in both Colorado and Israel. Together, we are building a bridge of innovation, collaboration, and shared success, and we need your support.

We encourage you to join us in becoming a vital advocate of this journey and partnership. Here’s to a future filled with growth and possibilities!

Best regards,

Jeremiah Baronberg (Denver) & Jordan Kastrinsky (Tel Aviv)
Co-Founders, Colorado-Israel Chamber of Commerce (CO-IL)
www.coloradoisrael.org

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Become a CO-IL Member Today →

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CO-IL Launch Party: Dec. 3rd

Thank You for Attending!

The program was filled with inspiring moments, starting with a warm welcome by Jodi Scott and Matt Eisler of Hogan Lovells, who have been instrumental in CO-IL's efforts this year. Featured video messages from Colorado Governor Jared Polis and Israel Consul General Israel Bachar emphasized the critical role of partnerships in fostering economic growth. The evening also included a panel discussion with Stephanie Garnica of Denver Economic Development & Opportunity (DEDO) and David Ephraim of the Israel Economic Mission.

We were honored to hear from Colorado-Israel industry leaders. Tomer Saban and Tyler Rauert represented NICE, showcasing how Israeli innovation is driving growth here in Colorado. Justin Borus, Founder and CEO of Ibex Investors, shared his unique perspective on bridging Colorado and Israel’s entrepreneurial ecosystems.

And, of course, delicious Mediterranean catering by Boychik, exquisite Jezreel Valley Winery selections, and beverages provided by Mayfair Liquors added a warm and welcoming culinary experience that celebrated both Colorado and Israel.

We are deeply grateful to our sponsors for making the event possible: Friends of the Israel Defense Forces (FIDF), Trinet, Steve and Ellen Finer, Israel Economic Mission to the South-Midwest, HCCI Professional Protective Services, and Green Judaica.

Interested in Getting Involved With CO-IL?

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New CO-IL Program

Colorado-Israel Connects

CO-IL is thrilled to launch its newest program, Colorado-Israel Connects, designed to connect Colorado companies with Israeli innovation to help address and respond to their business and operational challenges.

Colorado leads the nation in industries such as aerospace, quantum, climate-tech, and bioscience, while Israel, the ‘Startup Nation,’ sets the global standard in tech and entrepreneurship. This CO-IL program bridges these two dynamic regions by offering Colorado companies direct access to Israeli expertise in fields such as healthcare, cybersecurity, space-tech, and more.

What challenges does your business face? What technologies and efficiencies are you looking to add to your company's products or services?

Whether your company is seeking innovative solutions, operational efficiencies, or next-gen technologies, CO-IL will leverage our deep network within Israel’s startup ecosystem to find tailored solutions for your organization.

Reach out to CO-IL Colorado Director Jeremiah Baronberg to arrange a consultation at jeremiah@coloradoisrael.org.

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CO-IL Member Spotlight

NAI Shames Makovsky

This month, we’re proud to spotlight NAI Shames Makovsky, a cornerstone in Denver’s commercial real estate industry and one of CO-IL’s founding members. As a full-service real estate firm with deep roots in Colorado, NAI Shames Makovsky exemplifies the innovative and collaborative spirit that defines the Colorado-Israel relationship. Through their expertise in property management, brokerage, investment, and development, they’ve built a reputation for fostering growth and creating opportunities across Colorado’s vibrant economic landscape.

Their commitment to excellence aligns perfectly with CO-IL’s mission to bridge Colorado’s dynamic industries with Israel’s innovation ecosystem. NAI Shames Makovsky’s leadership extends beyond real estate, as they play an active role in supporting community initiatives and driving economic development in Denver and beyond. By partnering with CO-IL, they’re paving the way for impactful collaborations that connect Colorado’s thriving commercial sectors with Israeli ingenuity.

We are honored to have NAI Shames Makovsky as a founding member and look forward to growing this partnership as we advance Colorado-Israel ties together!

Become a CO-IL Member Today →

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Supporting

The Shalev Family

We are honored to support Dekel and Oshri Shalev, survivors of the October 7th tragedy at Kibbutz Be’eri, as they rebuild their lives in Colorado. Oshri, a skilled chemical engineer, seeks visa guidance and professional connections in biotech, medical, agricultural, or energy sectors. Let’s rally around the Shalev family to show the power of community. Please send an email to info@coloradoisrael.org with any relevant leads or information.

Learn more about their story and support efforts here.

Watch the Shalev's interview on the events of October 7th below.

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Event Invitation: Dec. 18
Denver Council on Foreign Relations hosts

The Middle East on Fire:

New Challenges to U.S. Foreign Policy with Amb. Gary Grappo

After a period of about 10 years of relative quiet, the Middle East has quickly moved into one of hyperactivity and conflict, presenting enormous challenges to U.S. foreign and national security policy. The war in Gaza and associated fighting with Hezbollah in Southern Lebanon, the Houthis of Yemen, pro-Iranian militia groups in Syria and Iraq, and with Iran itself have forced the US to turn its focus from the war in Ukraine and the challenge of China to the Middle East. With a new administration taking charge, what are the challenges and likely policy options it will be faced with?

Gary Grappo is a former U.S. ambassador and Distinguished Fellow at the Center for Middle East Studies at the Korbel School for International Studies, University of Denver. He provides analysis, guidance and advice on foreign affairs and national security, and writes and speaks frequently on Middle East affairs and foreign policy.

📅 Date: December 18, 2024
📍 Location: Upon registration.

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CO-IL In The News

CO-IL launch featured in Intermountain Jewish News. (click image above or here for link to article)

https://omny.fm/shows/the-jeff-and-bill-show/jeff-and-bill-12-4-24-6am

Jordan Kastrinsky interviewed on Denver morning radio program, The Jeff and Bill Show. (click image above or here for link to episode)

https://www.iheart.com/podcast/88-the-mandy-connell-podcast-26936030/episode/11-18-24-interview-jeremiah-baronberg--239715715/?cmp=ios_share&sc=ios_social_share&pr=false

Jeremiah Baronberg interviewed on The Mandy Connell Show on KOA Radio. (click image above or here for link to episode)

Follow All of Our CO-IL Activities on LinkedIn

Visit us online at www.coloradoisrael.org

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Subject: We Have Officially Launched! Become a Member, CO-IL Connects Program, and more…

CO-IL launch featured in Intermountain Jewish News. (click image above or here for link to article)

Jordan Kastrinsky interviewed on Denver morning radio program, The Jeff and Bill Show. (click image above or here for link to episode)

Jeremiah Baronberg interviewed on The Mandy Connell Show on KOA Radio. (click image above or here for link to episode)