In the tech-driven world of Israel’s innovation, Next October has carved a unique and transformative space, connecting Israeli tech startups with families who have lost loved ones, forming bonds that reach far beyond business. Founded in the aftermath of tragic loss, Next
October has undertaken a profound mission of remembrance, resilience, and renewal, offering a way to remember those who sacrificed their lives through the empowering force of technology together with the community.
The organization, founded by Hila Shay, is not just a tribute to her son, Yaron, a soldier in the Nahal Brigade who lost his life while bravely defending his country, but a testimonial to the collective memory of every Israeli soldier and citizen whose life was cut short in last October’s battles. As Hila describes it, the organization’s purpose is to ensure that “the memory of our loved ones isn’t confined to a memorial, but instead lives on through meaningful action and ongoing impact.”
The Story Behind Next October
For Hila, the journey to create Next October began in the wake of her immense personal loss.
“Yaron was a remarkable young man,” she recalls, “an outstanding truly exceptional soldier, a loyal friend, and a cherished son. He had dreams, talents, and humor that touched everyone he met.”
After Yaron’s death, Hila knew that a traditional memorial wasn’t enough. She wanted to create something lasting that would carry forward the values and dreams of Yaron and others like him. As such, Next October was born—a venture that combines Israel’s renowned tech prowess with the spirit of remembrance and healing.
Connecting Startups with Families: A Vision for Social Responsibility
At the heart of Next October lies a deeply meaningful process: pairing Israeli startups with families who have experienced unimaginable loss. Hila explains: “We didn’t want a fleeting memorial for Yaron. We wanted to build something enduring and impactful, something that would benefit others and keep Yaron’s spirit alive.” The result is a network where startups, motivated by both innovation and compassion, partner with bereaved families, embracing the responsibility to make a difference.
These partnerships are far from mere symbolic gestures. Startups in the Next October community pledge to contribute to Israel’s economic growth, while also integrating a sense of social responsibility. “Each startup that joins Next October understands it’s more than just a network,” Hila says. “They take on the role of preserving the memory of those who fell, contributing to Israel’s society, and carrying forward values that transcend the battlefield.”
Building Bonds That Rise Above Differences
Next October’s impact is deeply felt by the families who are part of this journey. One example is a poignant collaboration between a startup and the family of Avichai, another soldier who fell in the line of duty. Avichai came from a religious Zionist background, while Yaron’s family is more secular.
Despite their different political and social backgrounds, the two families have found common ground in their shared grief and resilience. Hila recounts that “it’s incredibly moving to see these connections grow beyond all expectations. They’re bonds that remind us of the power of unity and compassion.”
This initiative isn’t just a remembrance for the sake of memory; it actively promotes the growth of Israel’s high-tech sector and the Israeli economy. In fact, Hila emphasizes the role of the tech industry in shaping Israel’s future: “Every crisis in Israel’s history has been met with resilience and innovation. The tech sector has always played a crucial role in moving the country forward, and Next October is harnessing that same power to create a lasting legacy.”
A Supportive Ecosystem for Startups and Families
With over 360 startups and more than 200 family-company pairings, Next October is thriving as a powerful support ecosystem for both grieving families and the Israeli economy. In addition to connecting families with companies, Next October provides extensive mentoring and resources to help these startups succeed. “We want our startups to flourish for all the right reasons,” Hila notes. “We’re creating a nurturing environment for them, connecting them with investors and providing mentorship opportunities they might not have found on their own.”
Hila’s vision for Next October is to create a sustainable impact for years to come. “The legacy we’re building isn’t just for today or tomorrow—it’s a way to honor our fallen loved ones through actions that create positive change,” she says. This is why Next October partners exclusively with growing companies that have a high likelihood of success and a strong sense of responsibility.
Each company must also have at least one Israeli founder and demonstrate the potential for long-term growth and social impact.
Honoring Lives Through Action and Optimism
Perhaps the most powerful aspect of Next October is its commitment to honoring fallen soldiers and civilians in ways that reflect their unique dreams and aspirations. One of the startups created informational videos explaining complex medical procedures to patients using an avatar of Osher, a young woman tragically killed on October 7 who aspired to be a doctor.
For Osher’s family, the company’s work feels like a continuation of her dreams. “Now, through these videos, we can actually see Osher through her avatar speaking as a doctor to patients about the procedures,” Hila shares with a sense of pride and emotion. This initiative exemplifies how Next October creates pathways for the memory of each loved one to live on in a way that aligns with their spirit and potential.
The organization’s efforts have transformed countless lives, including families who, through Next October’s partnerships, find comfort and purpose amid loss. For Hila, this journey is personal and profound. She describes how each day, she and her team work to “choose optimism and build anew in the face of hardship.” Every morning, Next October’s community rises with a renewed commitment to carrying forward a legacy of resilience and hope, creating a future that honors those they’ve lost.
Looking Ahead: Growing Together for a Better Future
As Next October continues to expand, Hila calls on more companies to join their mission. “If you see yourself as part of this community, committed to social responsibility, and want to support families in a meaningful way, we’d be honored to have you join us,” she says passionately. Next October stands as a testament to what can be achieved when we unite with a shared purpose.
Through Next October, Hila Shay has created a legacy of resilience, remembrance, and hope. The organization not only fosters economic growth but weaves together Israel’s high-tech prowess and the enduring spirit of its people. It is a powerful reminder that, in Israel, loss can serve as a springboard for compassion, unity, and the unyielding will to move forward. As Hila concludes:
“This story is Israel’s story—a story of thousands of years of resilience and strength, coming out stronger after every challenge. Join us in making a better world, a world that remembers, heals, and builds.”
