A new concierge service offers simplified immigration and absorption as an incentive for immigration
When it comes to immigration, feeling like you belong is a whole other thing, yet critical to the success of such a life-changing step. Belong, the first-ever private company in its field, offers an innovative service for immigrants who wish to invest in their sense of belonging, practically speaking.
"Feeling like you belong is a whole other thing."
"Belong connects immigrants to society, getting them to feel they belong and that they have someone to talk and consult with about major as well as minor aspects of the move," explains CEO Eilon Gilad. "Our services range from ensuring they receive the benefits for which they are eligible through helping them handle the bureaucracy and paperwork, to booking a restaurant, sending flowers or connecting them to communities. We engage local service providers in the mission of welcoming new immigrants and providing them the level of service they are used to, and this way, this major step becomes a positive experience."
The company first chose to execute its unique offer in Israel, a rather challenging location. As the State of Israel is in the midst of its possibly biggest crisis yet, this is actually perceived as an opportunity. "This is a stock worth investing in before it sparks again," says Gilad.
The original format was created especially for Diaspora Jews, who immigrate to Israel for many reasons. They consider this time an opportunity to "lead new immigrants to find meaning by helping them rebuild the Jewish homeland."
"Lead new immigrants to find meaning by helping them rebuild the Jewish homeland." Eilon Gilad
"The October 7th attack reinforced the need to support a massive wave of Aliyah (immigration to Israel) and provide assistance to immigrants who see Israel as their home. Antisemitism and worldwide anti-Israel campaigns existed before October 7th," says Gilad, "but have grown in scope and intensity since.
The innovative path forged by the company has been under development for the past few years. However, the recent war and its profound effects on Diaspora Jews worldwide has underscored the urgent need to bring Jews to Israel.
They believe that now is the time to encourage the Jewish community in the US and elsewhere to take the step. "Since the beginning of the war, the importance of immigration to Israel has never been greater, because there are those who challenge Israel’s right to exist. Indeed, the situation in Israel is challenging, as we are at war; however, around the world Jews do not feel secure outside of Israel either."
The self-described Zionist company has, in addition to its ideological and technological features, a structured business model that can easily be implemented in other countries. "We harness the private sector in the mission of welcoming immigrants, with funding primarily derived from commissions paid by service providers. These providers receive leads from our company to assist new immigrants who require their services. On our digital platform, new immigrants will get substantial discounts as well as exceptional service from service providers. The company also operates a concierge service through one of its partners."
"This is a stock worth investing in before it sparks again."
Beyond supporting immigrants, the company will also offer short-term opportunities that encourage and promote immigration such as job internships, educational opportunities, and volunteer positions.
This immigration VIP route can start before the actual move, through immigration and integration professionals who have served for years in Aliya (immigration) organizations and are very familiar with the process. "We prepare potential immigrants with the right documents and coordinate expectations so that they have a smooth and positive experience."
By empowering immigrants with tailored support, this innovative service not only simplifies their journey but also offers them the tools to turn challenges into triumphs. By bridging gaps and providing access to resources that may have been out of reach, it enables immigrants to navigate their new lives with confidence and resilience. In essence, a route that once seemed daunting can now become a pathway to success and fulfillment.
