A Practical Course on Becoming

A Freelancer in Israel

This online course is designed for Olim who are planning to become a freelancer in Israel. It covers the key steps and considerations, with a focus on practical information and local context.

Over several weeks, participants will explore essential topics including business registration, taxation, financial management, marketing, and operations. Whether you’re just starting to explore an idea or have already taken steps toward launching, the course offers guidance and tools to help navigate the process more confidently.

Course Benefits

Overview of Israeli business structures and how to register

Basics of budgeting, forecasting, and accessing funding options

Introduction to branding and marketing in Israel

Sales techniques, client relationships, and digital tools

Course Syllabus

The course will take place on Sunday and Wednesday evenings, May 27, 31, June 3, 7, 10, 14, 17, 21 2026 at 8PM on Zoom.

Cost: 500 NIS

Session 1:

Introduction to Business in Israel

  • Defining your business or service
  • Key professionals to consult when starting a business
  • How to set up a business: legal, financial, and operational basics
  • Identifying your business goals

Session 2:

Market Research and Business Planning

  • Conducting market research: Tools, templates, and examples
  • How to analyze competitors and identify your niche
  • Writing a simple, actionable business plan
  • Using SMART goals to plan and track progress
  • Pricing and valuing your services

Session 3:

Legal and Regulatory Framework

  • Understanding taxes and obligations: simple breakdown
  • Basic overview of intellectual property rights and protections
  • Liability, labor law, and relevant insurances: professional, product, cyber
  • Understanding Israel’s privacy regulations

Session 4:

Financial Management and Funding

  • Introduction to banking in Israel: accounts, services, and fees
  • Basics of budgeting, forecasting, and cash flow
  • Loans, grants, and small business funding options
  • What is עוסק זעיר  and when it applies
  • Understanding tax obligations and reporting requirements

Session 5:

Networking and Building a Professional Network in Israel

  • Learn how to build a strong professional network through connections, communities, and referrals
  • Master effective outreach and follow-up to build and maintain relationships
  • Understand how to leverage LinkedIn tools to grow and engage your network

Session 6:

Building Your Private Practice (Relevant for all service providers)

  • What defines a private practice in Israel, and how it differs from other business types
  • Determining whether your service is regulated
  • Pricing and valuing your services
  • Budgeting for sustainability
  • Tools for scheduling, documentation, and payment
  • Simplified sales contracts and quotes

Session 7:

Marketing and Branding

  • Understanding your Unique Selling Proposition (USP)
  • Building a simple, effective brand from scratch
  • Local marketing strategies: from flyers to social media
  • Introduction to AI marketing tools for small businesses

Session 8:

Sales and Customer Acquisition

  • Understanding the sales process: from lead to close
  • Networking effectively in Israel
  • Creating and delivering a strong sales pitch
  • Handling client objections and successfully closing deals

Instructors

Michal Kaye

Helene Berkowitz

Russell Mayer

Debra Kodish

Sara Royf

Tammy Youngerwood

Yoni Hyman