Jonathan Merage FoundationAdvancing Israel's Disruptive Technologies for Humanity

The Jonathan Merage Foundation supports and invests in breakthrough technologies, ecosystem growth engines, and community development initiatives — combining scientific curiosity with venture-driven philanthropy to create measurable, long-term impact.

Explore our approach

"Innovation becomes meaningful when it strengthens people, communities, and our collective future."

— Jonathan Merage, Founder

Scientific curiosity meets venture-driven philanthropy

Established in 2008 in the US by Jonathan Merage — a meteorologist, entrepreneur, and philanthropist — the Foundation is built upon the synthesis of scientific curiosity and strategic, venture-driven investment. Operating in the US and in Israel through Merage Foundation Israel, its early focus on understanding complex natural systems evolved into a broader mission to advance deep-tech innovation that addresses global challenges, alongside strengthening preparedness and response capabilities in times of crisis. Through partnerships in the US and Israel, the foundation invests in initiatives that help individuals and communities thrive.

JMF applies a venture-philanthropy model that identifies early-stage potential, catalyzes breakthrough innovation through strategic funding, fosters ecosystem partnerships, and prioritizes measurable outcomes that translate scientific advancement into real-world resilience.

JMF Team

Michael Niyompong

Executive Director, JMF

Nicole Hod Stroh

Executive Director, MFI

Sinai Gohar Barak

Head of Innovation & Grants Officer

Sivan De Jongh

Strategic Advisor

Three pillars. One mission

Grow Disruptive Technologies

JMF scales breakthrough ideas — bridging the gap between innovation and real-world application through impact investing in disruptive startups, enabling faster commercialization and follow-on investment.

Strengthen Tech Ecosystems

Beyond individual startups, JMF supports the deep-tech ecosystem by investing in infrastructure organizations that build ventures, accelerate commercialization, and develop industry-ready talent.

Community Development

JMF strengthens communities by investing in recovery, preparedness, and long-term resilience — providing rapid-response emergency funding and supporting mental health, rehabilitation, and local leadership.

Deep Tech Focus