Unicorn Rodeo: Bridging Israeli Innovation with Texas Growth Potential

The Unicorn Rodeo: A Unique Fusion of Innovation

In an unprecedented merger of cultures and economic power, the Texas-Israel Alliance (TIA), in collaboration with The Jerusalem Post, is set to host the Unicorn Rodeo, a transformative 2-day international conference in Dallas on April 29-30, 2026. Under the banner of “Startup Nation Meets the Scale-Up State,” this unique gathering aims to connect the world-class innovation from Israel with the robust scale-up capabilities of Texas.

This event arrives at a pivotal moment as Texas emerges as the eighth-largest economy worldwide, serving as an enticing platform for Israeli companies aspiring to expand their reach in the U.S. The Unicorn Rodeo promises to create an environment where innovation, capital, and policy converge to generate tangible economic opportunities.

Tapping into Strengths

Doug Deason, Chairman of the Texas-Israel Alliance, underscores the significance of this event. He notes, “Unicorn Rodeo is perfectly timed to capitalize on Texas’ ascendancy as a financial powerhouse and its budding alliances with Israeli innovators.” By leveraging Texas' renowned business culture alongside Israel's exceptional technological developments, this gathering seeks to amplify the momentum surrounding both economies.

Throughout the conference, attendees will engage in focused discussions that encompass critical sectors such as Artificial Intelligence, Health, Energy, and Defense. This will allow startups to not only showcase their innovations but also to network extensively with potential investors and policymakers in a setting that emphasizes cooperation.

Livia Link-Raviv, the Israeli Consul General to the Southwest, emphasized the robust partnership between Texas and Israel. She stated, “Our economies complement each other well, and Texas is rapidly becoming an essential gateway for Israeli entrepreneurs looking to expand their foothold in the United States. Unicorn Rodeo epitomizes the collaborative efforts that accelerate innovation and solidify relationships between the two regions.”

A Legacy of Collaboration

This event is not only a milestone but also a reflection of the Texas-Israel Alliance's evolution since its inception in 2007. David Wiessman, the founder of the Alliance, expressed his excitement regarding the significant progress made since they proposed the idea of collaboration between these two regions. “The vision we had for economic partnership is growing more robust, and initiating this conference ushers in a new era of opportunity,” he remarked.

In addition, the current leaders of the Alliance view Unicorn Rodeo as a means to fulfill their long-term objective of facilitating the entry of 100 Israeli firms into the Texan market within the next decade. Tal Shmueli, a partner at Texas Venture Partners, noted the favorable business environment offers an unmatched expansion opportunity for companies born in Israel.

George Seay, founder of Annandale Capital and a board member of the Texas-Israel Alliance, commented on the historical depth of the relationship, saying, “The bond that Texas and Israel share is grounded in our aligned beliefs and dedication to free enterprise. With the potential for growth continuing to expand, we are committed to nurturing economic ties between our regions for many years.”

Session Highlights

Unicorn Rodeo will feature an array of panels and keynotes led by thought leaders from both the U.S. and Israel, providing insights on topics of pressing importance across various industries. Attendees will also have the unique opportunity to participate in