Israel is, of course, the Start-Up Nation, the birthplace of drip irrigation, the USB flash drive and Iron Dome. But as we celebrate Israel’s 73rd Independence Day, there is so much more that makes us proud. Indeed, this tiny, somewhat beleaguered country is greatly admired all over the world for both the quantity and quality of its groundbreaking start-up and high-tech companies.

This special issue of “Cutting-Edge,” produced in partnership with the Israel Innovation Authority, highlights innovative initiatives pioneered by remarkable Israelis in such diverse fields as big data, robotics, AgTech, digital health and even pedagogy – many of which are set to improve our world for future generations.

Please join us in applauding a very special country whose achievements deserve to be honored.