Check Point CEO To Receive Inaugural Israel Prize In Technology & Innovation

Gil Shwed, founder and CEO of Check Point and considered the inventor of the modern computer firewall, will be awarded the inaugural Israel Prize in the field of technology and innovation. Established in 1993, Check Point is one of Israel’s largest technology companies and a global leader in cyber-security. Education Minister Naftali Bennett decided to create the new category—adding to those ranging from culture and the arts to the natural sciences and sports—ahead of the 70^th anniversary of the Jewish state’s founding to highlight its transformation into the so-called “Start-up Nation” due to its technological prowess.  “The State of Israel is a wonder and our industry, the hi-tech industry, transforms the innovative spirit that is pulsating here into products that improve the world and change the lives of all citizens wherever they may be,” Shwed said after learning of the award. The Israel Prize, regarded as the state’s highest honor, is presented annually on Independence Day in a ceremony attended by the Israeli president, prime minister, speaker of parliament and Supreme Court chief justice.