Success Stories

Eliyahu Malki, 25, Yayin Shelanu Wine Boutique, Netanya
“My vision was born from a passion for quality kosher wines and the desire to make them accessible to the Israeli audience. I understood that there was a gap in the market and an opportunity to bring something new, an entire experience of wine and story behind it. In my search for partners on this journey, I reached out to Keren Natan. I was impressed by the professionalism of the foundation’s staff who asked to see a detailed business plan and understood my vision. Today, when I see customers discovering a new world of quality kosher wines, I know that my vision is coming true thanks to the foundation and its people. Every entrepreneur who dreams – don’t be intimidated by bureaucracy, follow your dream, because there are those who want you to succeed.”

Maoz Musacho, 27, and Amit Ackerman, 27 - Aledro - Hydroponic Greenhouse, Geulim
“Our dream of establishing an innovative greenhouse began during a period of extended military reserve duty. We came to Keren Natan through colleagues who warmly recommended them. The foundation’s staff instilled confidence in us from the very first phone call, even while we were still in the assembly areas during our reserve duty. The professional support of the foundation enabled us to establish the greenhouses and purchase all the required equipment from scratch. Today, our business is flourishing. We warmly recommend every entrepreneur to apply to Keren Natan – it’s a unique opportunity to receive professional support with comfortable repayment terms and minimum bureaucracy.”

Yaniv and Hadar Moshe, 37 and 32, CrossFit Green Beach, Netanya
“We came to Keren Natan through a recommendation from good friends while looking for partners to establish our fitness center. We were impressed by the professional approach and personal attention of the foundation, which were exceptional in the business landscape. The meeting with the foundation’s staff and CEO Dorit was empowering – they understood our vision and believed in our path. We renovated, branded, designed, bought the best equipment, and opened the place according to our vision. In today’s challenging business world, Keren Natan is a true bright spot for entrepreneurs. Before you turn to any other entity, turn to Keren Natan! Meet the amazing people behind the foundation, especially the wonderful Dorit, and see how a business can take shape (literally), grow, and develop with the right support. We are living proof of that.”

Tomer and Roee Maayan Marzel Shar, 46 and 47, Khan Ein Karem Boutique Hotel, Jerusalem
“We came to Keren Natan after an exhausting search for funding for our ambitious project. Our dream was to open a boutique hotel in the Ein Karem, in a house that has been abandoned for 26 years. The foundation’s staff visited the place, mainly listened, and strengthened us on the path to fulfillment. The foundation stood by our side throughout the journey. Upon receiving the loan, we renovated and restored the authentic building. We also managed to purchase furniture, textiles, everything needed for a hotel from scratch. And a final word about Keren Natan: is a ray of light in the Israeli landscape. The desire to help, the important tips, and the listening are rare phenomena in our region. We wholeheartedly recommend turning to them and hope they will continue their blessed activity of establishing businesses in Israel”.

Irit Hirschfeld, 35, The Yurt in Motza - Vacation Cabins, Motza Illit
“I learned about Keren Natan through an advertisement on Facebook. From there, the path was very short. I visited the foundation’s website and read the details thoroughly to ensure it wasn’t a scam. After understanding that it was a serious and reliable organization, I left my details, and shortly afterward, they contacted me. I was invited for a pleasant interview at Keren Natan, and shortly after presenting the business plan, my desired loan was approved. Thanks to the loan from the foundation, I established the infrastructure for the yurt complex. From my experience, I warmly recommend anyone who dreams of starting a business to approach Keren Natan. Make sure to arrive prepared with a tight business plan and a big smile. Leave cynicism at home. The wonderful foundation staff will do everything to help you succeed, and the feeling is that your success is their success.“

Amichai Shassi, 28, Asimo - Shoe Store, Jerusalem
“I heard about Keren Natan through a business consultant. The fact that the foundation provides an interest-free loan surprised. The meeting with Dorit and Ilan was very pleasant and supportive, and I felt that they wanted me to succeed. With the approval of the loan, which really saved me at that stage, we purchased the required merchandise and completed the renovation of the store. I credit the establishment of the store to the foundation’s people; it was the loan with the best terms I could have asked for. I recommend to all my friends to come to the foundation prepared with a business plan, put everything on the table, show what you know and can do, and be honest. I believe you will be surprised, at least as much as I was, by the integrity, professionalism, and love for people.“

Maor Bitton, 37, and Omri Levy, 41, "Regaim" Stabilization House, Migdal HaEmek
“We approached several foundations,” with the plan to establishing “Regaim” (Moments) a Stabilization House in Migdal HaEmek to provide an alternative to psychiatric hospitalization for people experiencing mental crisis. At Keren Natan, they were genuinely excited about the initiative, and we felt that their enthusiasm was authentic and found true partners for our journey. The loan enabled us to build the place from scratch – renovations, initial equipment, furniture, and meeting the Ministry of Health requirements. The foundation, led by CEO Dorit, is an enthusiastic supporter of the initiative. Along with our leap into the water, we received professional help to establish the business. If you have a business dream – don’t give up! We have no doubt that you too will find in Keren Natan the support that will turn your dream into reality.”

Omri Alphia, 29, and Ilay Gershoni, 26, PTSD - Wine Bar, Kfar Tavor
“We heard about Keren Natan during our studies.” Our dream was to open a unique wine bar. Upon completing our studies, it was clear to us that the foundation was our first address! Without the loan, we wouldn’t have been able to open the place. After submitting documents and receiving approval from the foundation’s committee, we received the desired loan within a short time! The foundation staff’s conduct was amazing and with complete transparency – a rare thing in our region. The loan allowed us to purchase equipment, initial inventory of goods, renovation of the place, and we set out on our way. Keren Natan is the missing link between the dream and its realization. The foundation doesn’t take anything for itself and works solely to ensure the business succeeds. It’s rare and moving to meet people whose goal is the success of others, who act from ideological motives and love for others. Bless you!”

Oved Ben-Horin, 44, Vacation Resort, Nov
“During my honeymoon trip to Nepal, I arrived at a small boutique hotel. The place itself and the warm, personal attention I received planted the seeds of a dream to establish a vacation resort for families. A good friend, warmly recommended that I approach the foundation’s people. First, I spoke with the foundation’s CEO, Dorit, and after a personal interview and presenting my documents, the loan was approved. Keren Natan is a rare experience in the financial world, both in the professional aspect and in the personal aspect. Thanks to Keren Natan’s loan, I completed the construction and equipping, and even had the honor of hosting Naty (Nathan) Kirsh, the philanthropist and foundation owner, his family, and of course Dorit. I had the pleasure of getting to know them personally, as human beings for whom giving is a significant part of their lives. Exactly what is needed to help entrepreneurs succeed.“

Alon Chen, 48, Airbag Vest, Nir David
“I am writing these lines to share with every entrepreneur this true wonder called Keren Natan. I heard about the foundation through a friend who, is a banker. The application process was user-friendly and very quick, and above all, supportive and full of motivation from the wonderful foundation staff. Keren Natan stands alone in the Israeli landscape; it truly is a philanthropic foundation that performs acts of kindness for entrepreneurs. Upon receiving the loan, I managed to advance the marketing of my life-saving vest, and thanks to the professionalism and peace of mind that the foundation’s people instilled in me, I am succeeding in moving forward. I wish that similar organizations (may there be many) would operate in the way that Keren Natan operates – quietly, modestly, with great precision, humanity, and mutual responsibility.“

Alon Shabo, 32, Pastry Shop, Tel Aviv
“If I had to define Keren Natan in one word, I would say that it’s the “petit four” of foundations in Israel. I came to the foundation through advice from a friend who received a loan from Keren Natan. I had doubts at first, but the process was simple, concise, and professional at levels I hadn’t experienced before. I was surprised by the warm attitude that I didn’t take for granted. After presenting the required documents to the foundation’s management, which included a precise business plan, my loan was approved, and I proceeded calmly and confidently to establish the pastry shop I had dreamed of. Without a doubt, I owe part of my success to the wonderful people at Keren Natan. And for those who are hesitating, skeptical, or worried, my advice is: if you’re entrepreneurs with a dream, Keren Natan is the place to start with, guaranteed.“

Joan Hillel, Optometrist, Jerusalem
“I received the recommendation for Keren Natan from a good friend. In retrospect, it was the best advice he ever gave me. I approached the foundation after preparing a solid business plan with a business consultant. From there, things flowed efficiently and without unnecessary bureaucracy – zero hassles, one hundred percent professionalism. Thanks to the loan that the foundation provided me, I transformed from an employee to a self-employed business owner – a dream come true. I purchased professional optical equipment and instruments and set out on my way, smiling more than ever. The foundation gave me the courage and support that I so desperately needed, and for me, the greatest expression of gratitude is to spread the word to all my friends. Keren Natan, there is no other foundation like it.“

Maya HaCohen, 31, Bridal and Evening Gown Design, Tel Aviv
“As a fashion designer with a strong desire to open a business in of my own, I understood that I would need financial assistance. After extensive research, I found Keren Natan. Beyond the good feeling I experienced, the serious consideration of my vision, and the super professional help in understanding what I was getting into, I met people who were willing to assist me at any moment just so that I could succeed. Throughout the entire process, the foundation’s staff were there to support, assist, and offer invaluable advice. Such support is not to be taken for granted; my motivation strengthened, and I felt that I had backing and someone who believed in me. To new entrepreneurs, I warmly and lovingly recommend Keren Natan, because what you receive with love, you return with love.“

Chai Silvora, 46, Butcher, Jerusalem
“My story begins with a bitter experience. After approaching an external funding source in my great naivety, I was promised a business plan and a government-backed loan, for a fee of course. I didn’t receive anything that was promised. In desperation, I turned to MAOF (the Small Business Development Center), who recommended Keren Natan. From there, my story changes. Within A day after meeting with Dorit, the CEO of Keren Natan, I received a positive response to my request. I purchased the necessary equipment, refrigerators, shelving, and other professional tools, and my butcher shop started operating. Today, I’m grateful for not giving up, and even more grateful to Keren Natan for their honesty and fairness, which are rare commodities in these turbulent times. My business is successful, I maintain regular contact with the foundation and its people, and to new entrepreneurs, I suggest checking out Keren Natan before any other option. True to its name, it gives from the heart, with kindness and love. Tell them Chai sent you (:“

Alex Abramov, 34, Culinary Hosting, Tel Aviv
“After spending 6 years in Japan and other Asian countries, specializing and working in the restaurant industry, I returned to Israel with the passion to open a place for authentic Japanese-style culinary hosting and modern cuisine. I searched for funding sources online and encountered many rejections. Then I found Keren Natan. I arrived excited and had prepared a business plan and strong determination. From the first moment, I felt at home. The interview was thorough and concrete, free of unnecessary condescension, full of important business tips that I implement to this day, and most importantly, a human approach that I was sure had disappeared from this world. The loan helped me purchase the right equipment, design the space and build the kitchen. The foundation does amazing work for entrepreneurs. My advice to every entrepreneur is: if you’re going to dream, then dream with Keren Natan.“

Deborah Weinberg, 29, boutique studio for trampoline training and fitness, Bnei Brak
“Giving” is an especially significant word in the community I come from, which is why it was a key word in my endless online searches while pursuing funding for my initiative. After a brief consultation with my business advisor, I turned to Keren Natan . From the beginning of the process, I realized that their approach was different from anything I had known before – they want me to succeed, without conditions. The loan was given to me interest-free! What I borrowed is exactly what I’m returning, it’s that simple. Upon receiving the loan, I rented a space, purchased sports equipment, and invested in marketing with the close guidance of the foundation’s staff. Only then did I really start to sweat (:“

Shehada Abu Shehada, 44, and Farah Abu Nigem, 36, Café and Knafeh, Tel Aviv
“Our story begins with a meeting at MATI (Small Business Development Center). The advisor recommended Keren Natan, and he wasn’t wrong. We submitted the application to Keren Natan, and they came to visit the store during its establishment. It was a pleasant surprise to see the fund’s strong desire to help us succeed. They immediately identified the potential (who doesn’t love knafeh?) and after we did our homework, our loan was approved. And as promised, zero interest means zero interest, no more and no less. Our dream for a café serving knafeh developed quickly with the guidance of the fund and its wonderful people, and we soon found ourselves moving forward to open our third branch. So yes, dreams do come true if you believe in them enough and find the right people along the way – in our case, the people of Keren Natan.

Shahar Avnet, 35, Fashion and Art Brand, Tel Aviv
“Word about Keren Natan reached me through good friends who had already taken a loan through the fund. That’s how it is – good things travel by word of mouth. I prepared all the required documents in advance, including a precise business plan, and came to the meeting. The fund staff were empathetic, and after a short interview and coffee (without sugar), my loan was approved. It’s hard to believe, but the humane approach I received and the non-cynical care from the fund’s people only strengthened my confidence that I was on the right path. To my fellow entrepreneurs, I recommend that before approaching other sources, contact Keren Natan, because thanks to this wonderful fund, I turned my dream into reality.“

Shalev Wexler, 31, Ninja Complex, Petah Tikva
So how did I come to Keren Natan? Simple, my business advisor wouldn’t stop recommending them throughout our conversation. In the past, I approached various banking and non-banking institutions that made things difficult for me, and I almost gave up. In retrospect, it’s a shame I didn’t approach Keren Natan directly. The application process was short and precise, humane and attentive, and the crowning glory was that I received the loan without interest – conclusive proof that Keren Natan is not a profit driven organization. There’s no other fund like it, check it out for yourselves. Upon receiving the loan, I purchased the required equipment, and my vision began to take shape. I recommend to every entrepreneur with a burning dream to approach Keren Natan, come with a business plan and fire in your eyes. If you believe it, it will succeed.

Rina Medvedovsky, 45, Pet Shop and Grooming Salon, Bat Yam
My love for animals has always been a top priority, and my dream was to do something for them. After daring to dream about a grooming salon that would also be a pet shop, I looked for funding to help me fulfill my dream. I found Keren Natan through a simple Google search. A phone call to the fund explained the process for obtaining the loan in simple terms. Forms were sent to me, and after submitting them, I had a pleasant Zoom meeting with the fund staff. To my great joy, I was approved for a loan with dream conditions and no interest. Upon receiving the loan, I purchased inventory for the shop and salon. As a not-so-new immigrant, I recommend to all my friends to contact the fund. An interest-free loan is fairness incarnate, especially when it comes to a new business. None of us wants to get haircuts that aren’t dog haircuts (:

Shiri Baruch Na'ali, 46, Dir Aziz, Kanaf
Our life project, Dir Aziz, began with three goats. We had a vision to transform the goat pen into a quality cheese dairy. But after repeated appeals to various bodies, including banks, who turned us down we almost gave up. And then, a good friend warmly recommended Keren Natan. The application to the fund was quick and so was the process. Philanthropy, it turns out, is alive and kicking. The fund’s staff were professional courteous, and caring. No fine print or difficulties, straightforward and to the point. After submitting the appropriate forms, we received the desired loan. The guidance was personal and friendly, instilled confidence in us, and the terms were like a dream – what you borrow is what you return. No interest or other kinds of manipulations. We highly recommend and feel obligated to spread the word about this rare fund. Remember Keren Natan, for if you want to open your first business.

Yoav Lok, 52, Orthopedic Institute for Foot and Back Health Comfortzone, Tel Aviv
When I thought of opening an orthopedic institute, I had a clear motto: to help people improve their posture. I came to the Keren Natan through friends. At first I was skeptical, but I quickly realized that the fund shares my vision of helping people. The process was quick; instead of creating difficulties, the fund’s wonderful staff guided, supported, helped, and most importantly gave me the feeling that they wanted my success as much as I did. Sounds absurd, but it’s true. The loan that was given to me without interest and with close accompaniment from the fund staff, helped me renovate the place, purchase merchandise and equipment, and the business took shape. For the skeptics among us, I highly recommend getting a loan to open a business only from Keren Natan.

Dana Lahmi, 30, Dana Lahmi Bakery, Tirat Carmel
I always dreamed of opening a bakery with the exciting smell of pastries and the taste of cakes. I heard about Keren Natan from a friend, who highly recommended it. The moment I understood that the option of an interest-free loan exists – I knew this is a place for me. The process was simple, precise and efficient: from filling out the form on the website, through sending the required documents, a short interview with the wonderful fund staff, to signing the loan agreement. The loan enabled me to purchase essential equipment for the bakery, renovate the store, advertise the business, and build a website. The help from the fund’s staff went beyond the loan; I learned from them how to analyze the market, asses the competition, and the risks. I planned several months ahead, which gave me the ability to plan my path and succeed. Come taste my pastries and hear firsthand about this wonderful fund.

Barak Zoaretz, 43, Genesis Nursery, Kibbutz Tel Yitzhak
“I have always had a dream of establishing a nursery, I knew that the path to fulfilling my dream goes through precise planning and proper support. In my search I came across Keren Natan. I felt that I had finally found partners who see beyond the dry numbers. The professional guidance and friendly help I received from the fund’s people gave me the confidence and tools to grow my business. The fund’s professional team helped me formulate the business plan and build the inventory for the nursery. Today, when I look at my flourishing nursery, I know that Keren Natan not only invested in the business but in my dream of turning the green in my heart into reality. For any entrepreneur who dreams of starting a business – I warmly recommend contacting Keren Natan.“

Shulamit Damentcheko, 32, Children’s Dentist, Jerusalem
“I’m a new comer in Israel (5 years) and i’ve heard of Keren Nathan through a business adviser at MATI Jerusalem (Business Development Center). I plucked the courage to approach them and had a very pleasant reception. Warm, earnest, quick and focused. Once I got my documents in line they gave me an interview, where I told them of my dream and it has come true. The loan i received enabled me to buy the necessary equipment, helped with marketing and the rental of the clinic. I highly recommend to any entrepreneur with a vision to turn to keren Nathan. They believe in dreams”
You are welcome to follow Shulamit on instagram

Sahar Dalal & Tal Dayan, 30, 33, Fitness Studio, Jerusalem
“We first turned to MATI Jerusalem (Business Development Center) and they told us about keren Nathan. Despite of the fact that we actually did not meet their criteria, they believed in us and gave us the loan. Thanks to them we were able to renovate the studio, get equipment and open the business. It is very clear that they are here to help you start your own business, being so accommodating, allowing flexibility with the return payments and the entire experience is positive and humane. We highly recommend to turn to them if you want to start your own business”
You are welcome to check out Saar and Tal’s site http://mo-ve.co.il

Ofek Cohen, 31, Langeree Studio, Jerusalem
“For an entrepreneur, raising capital to start your business is a major challenge and even more so when it comes to the textile industry. I heard of Keren Nathan through friends and filed a request for a loan. Once they were happy with my business plan they believed in my vision approved of the loan. Thanks to them my dream has come true. Thank you Keren Nathan for believing in me.

Chen Asaraf, 34,
Fashion Designer, Bet Shemesh
“I found The Nathan Foundation on Google. As a young entrepreneur with a dream of opening a fashion studio, I had no prior knowledge of this foundation. Having verified that I fit their requirements I came to the meeting initially feeling a bit skeptical but soon found out that I was dealing with professionals. Thanks to the help I received from the foundation I was able to move into proper premises and build a new collection. The Nathan Foundation helped me conquer the world, become a brand name, and work with the country’s top celebrities”.

Nathan Bengio, 33
Drone Photogrammetrist, Yagel
“I came to The Nathan Foundation because of a recommendation from a business advisor. As a newcomer to Israel I first tried other means of raising loans but was turned down. After meeting The Nathan Foundation I felt like my dream was finally coming true. And so it was. Acquiring the loan was simple and easy, and it enabled me to purchase the necessary equipment for my business. Without The Nathan Foundation I couldn’t have made it. My success is the best way I can think of thanking them”.

Shani Berginer Betite, 33,
Movement studio, Herzliya
“I came to The Nathan Foundation having tried every other avenue to finance my business and almost giving up. At the foundation I met people who were able to listen to my initiative with patience and care, and after presenting a solid business plan, my loan was approved. A lot of people ask me about The Nathan Foundation and the honest truth is that it’s a fund created for the sole purpose of helping entrepreneurs fulfill their dreams. It’s as simple as that”.

Ika Cohen, 47,
Chocolatier, Tel Aviv
“The Nathan Foundation is the biggest gift a business can get. It sounds like a fairytale to the extent that people are suspicious of it. But I quickly understood that these are real professionals offering real help. Thanks to them I’ve got a thriving business and when it comes to chocolate, there’s nothing sweeter than that”

Elazar Korendreksler, 40,
Matzah Bakery, Bet Shemesh
“Starting a matzah bakery was my dream, but I had no way of funding it. After a long search I found the Nathan Foundation through a financial advisor and I immediately felt at home. Their willingness to help was surprising and once I presented a business plan my loan was approved. Finally I was able to open the bakery and today I employ 50 workers. The Nathan Foundation is the embodiment of charity. If you believe, you will find what you are looking for”.

Netanel Gamlyel, 39,
Butchery, Tel Aviv
“The Nathan Foundation is a rare bird in this country’s economy. Having tried many sources in the attempt to get a decent loan, I came to The Nathan Foundation with a small idea to open a butchery. They took me through a wonderful, professional and caring process and gave me the sense that my success is theirs, this to me is the highlight of The Nathan Foundation”

Sigalit Stern, 49,
Gluten Free Food, Herzliya
“I’ve managed to build my dream business only thanks to the loan I received from The Nathan Foundation. It was a tough journey mainly because of the high standards and heavy demands of the Health Ministry, but The Nathan Foundation was there for me with all along the way with an embrace that I needed so badly. To me that embrace is the essence of The Nathan Foundation”

Yachdav Gilbar & Gregori Zilber,
35, 36, Glass Blowing Studio,
Caesarea
“We first heard about The Nathan Foundation while working on our business plan with the aid of a business advisor. It was clear to us that we will need financial aid to build our business. The process of submitting our request for a loan was functional and efficient and we got the loan which enabled us to buy the necessary equipment and open our studio. Then came covid and to our amazement, The Nathan Foundation approached us of their own accord and suggested that we delay our repayments until the crisis is over. Sometimes reality surpasses all imagination. And yes, there is such a thing as philanthropy, and that’s a fact”

Yehonathan and Karina Refael,
42, 49, Cheese Dairy, Natur
“We had a small dairy at home at the south of the Golan Hights. Thanks to The Nathan Foundation we were able to open a boutique goat cheese dairy. We couldn’t believe that we are being offered an interest free loan and all along the process we felt that the people at the foundation really want to help us. We are very happy to have been able to refer more businesses from the Golan Hights to The Nathan Foundation and we highly recommend it to all new entrepreneurs”

Nazim and Enas Gavish,
44, 34, Daycare Facility, Yarka
“The Nathan Foundation has helped us fulfill our dream to open a daycare facility in Yarka. I’ve know about The Nathan Foundation through my work as an financial advisor and after consulting with my wife we turned to them and submitted a business plan. We felt at home from that moment onwards. The care and the professional help that we received, left no room for doubts that we have won. The loan was given to us in good faith without any hidden clauses. The people at The Nathan Foundation are truly ambassadors of goodwill”

Tal Hodara, 36,
Hydroponics Greenhouse, Elishama
“I came to The Nathan Foundation through a financial advisor with a concern that they might turn me down because growing vegetables in hydroponic Greenhouses is still not very common. To my surprise I found an open hear and a great willingness to flow with my initiative. After presenting the full scope of my plan, I received my loan and started my business knowing all along that amazing people are covering my back and will do everything to help me succeed! The sense of safety that I got is what makes The Nathan Foundation so unique”

Noa Gorali, 26,
Canine Rehabilitation Practitioner,
Zur Moshe
“I found The Nathan Foundation by looking online for a fund that helps small businesses. I left my details, they got back to me within a day and we started the process. I organized the required documents and built an in depth business plan. With the loan I bought the water walker necessary for the dog strengthening and restoration center, Dogotherapy that I opened. The water walker is in daily usage and is one of the most efficient rehabilitative tools existing for dogs. I highly recommend turning to The Nathan Foundation for a loan on your way to fulfill a dream of opening a new, active and successful business”