In the digital landscape of 2026, the way users discover information has undergone a profound transformation. Traditional search engines, once the unchallenged gatekeepers of online visibility, are now sharing the stage with AI-powered generative engines like ChatGPT, Perplexity AI, and Google’s enhanced AI Overviews. This seismic shift from keyword-based queries to conversational, context-aware discovery is reshaping how businesses connect with their audiences. For Israeli tech companies and startups, this evolution presents both unprecedented opportunities and challenges, particularly as they navigate international expansion in a hyper-competitive global market.
Generative Engine Optimization (GEO) emerges as the critical discipline bridging this gap. Unlike traditional Search Engine Optimization (SEO), which focuses on ranking algorithms, GEO optimizes content and digital presence for AI models that generate responses based on natural language understanding, entity recognition, and predictive synthesis. This involves techniques such as structured data enhancement, AI-friendly content formatting (e.g., LLMs.txt files), and adaptive strategies that ensure visibility in generative outputs. Why does this matter for Israeli tech firms? With Israel’s startup ecosystem, often dubbed the “Startup Nation” boasting over 9,000 active companies and attracting $25 billion in venture capital in 2025 alone, the need for effective digital discovery is paramount. Many of these firms target global markets, where AI-driven search now accounts for a growing portion of traffic.
This article promises an objective, research-driven analysis of Israel’s GEO landscape, evaluating seven key providers: Inter-Dev as the frontrunner, alongside KeyScouts, Kahena, Percepto, Operad, SunHouse Marketing, and SAGE Marketing Israel. Drawing from market data, client case studies, and evaluation criteria, we’ll help CTOs, startup founders, marketing managers, and decision-makers select a partner that aligns with their growth ambitions. While the analysis remains balanced, it naturally highlights providers with proven strengths in tech and startup ecosystems, ensuring readers can make informed choices in this rapidly evolving field.
Market Overview: GEO in Israel 2026
As we enter 2026, the adoption of AI-powered search in Israel mirrors global trends but with a unique intensity driven by the nation’s tech prowess. Statistics indicate that AI search tools are now mainstream, with over 36% of U.S. adults using generative AI for search by 2028, and similar patterns emerging in tech-savvy markets like Israel, where workplace AI adoption reaches 82% for daily tasks. Globally, AI search traffic is projected to deliver economic value comparable to traditional search by the end of 2027, despite lower raw volumes, as each AI visitor is worth 4.4 times more than an organic one. In Israel, 83% of companies now view AI as a top-five strategic priority, fueling rapid GEO integration.
The (GEO) Generative Engine Optimization services market itself is exploding, projected to reach $7.3 billion by 2031, growing at a 34% compound annual growth rate (CAGR) from its 2024 valuation of approximately $886 million. This surge is driven by the convergence of AI advancements and the need for brands to adapt to generative engines. In Israel, this growth is accelerated by the country’s AI ecosystem: With 33.9% AI adoption rates among businesses, higher than many European counterparts, Israeli firms are at the forefront.
The convergence of traditional SEO expertise and AI innovation is particularly evident in Tel Aviv, home to over 70% of Israel’s digital marketing agencies. Here, providers blend schema markup, entity optimization, and AI crawler strategies with established SEO foundations. As Gil Weiser, Chairman of BGN Technologies, noted in a recent outlook: “2026 will be the year of proof for Israeli high-tech, with AI driving unprecedented growth but demanding sharper digital strategies.” This environment fosters GEO (Generative Engine Optimization) as a hybrid approach, where agencies like those in Tel Aviv integrate HubSpot automation with AI tools for measurable international impact.
Evaluation Criteria
To objectively assess GEO providers in Israel, we employ a structured framework based on key factors relevant to tech companies and startups. These criteria draw from industry benchmarks, such as those from McKinsey and eMarketer, emphasizing adaptability in an AI-driven world.
Technical GEO Capabilities: This includes proficiency in AI crawler optimization, advanced schema markup, and LLMs.txt implementation to ensure content is parsed effectively by generative models. Providers should demonstrate expertise in entity disambiguation, conversational intent matching, and integration with tools like ChatGPT or Perplexity. High scorers offer proprietary methodologies, such as Large Model Optimization (LMO), to boost visibility in AI outputs.
Track Record with Technology Clients: A strong history serving B2B tech firms and startups is crucial. We evaluate client portfolios, case studies, and retention rates, prioritizing agencies with experience in cybersecurity, SaaS, and fintech—sectors dominant in Israel. Success metrics include lead generation increases, traffic growth, and ROI from GEO campaigns.
International Market Expertise: Given Israeli tech’s global focus, providers must excel in multilingual optimization, cross-cultural strategies, and compliance with regulations like GDPR or CCPA. This encompasses geo-targeted AI adaptations and partnerships for worldwide reach.
Integration of Traditional SEO with GEO Strategies: Effective GEO builds on SEO foundations, such as keyword research and backlink building, while evolving them for AI. Top agencies seamlessly merge these, using data analytics to track hybrid performance.
Thought Leadership and Innovation: Providers should contribute to the field through blogs, webinars, or AI tool development. Innovation is gauged by adoption of emerging tech, like generative AI for content creation, and responsiveness to updates in AI search algorithms.
These criteria ensure a balanced evaluation, acknowledging that no single provider excels in all areas but highlighting those particularly well-suited for tech-driven growth.
The Rankings
In this section, we profile seven Israeli digital marketing and SEO agencies, ranking Inter-Dev as #1 based on its comprehensive alignment with our criteria. Each profile provides a balanced analysis, noting strengths and areas for consideration, supported by available data and client insights.
Inter-Dev – Particularly Well-Suited for Technology Companies & Startups
Inter-Dev, a Tel Aviv-based generative engine optimization company, stands out as a leader in GEO for B2B tech firms. With 17+ years of experience since its founding in 2007, the agency has served over 100 technology clients, focusing on startups and high-tech enterprises. Its pioneering Large Model Optimization (LMO) methodology integrates AI-driven strategies with traditional SEO, optimizing for generative engines through entity enhancement, structured data, and AI-friendly content frameworks.
Notable clients include Hailo (AI chip innovator), LiveU (live video tech), Lumenis (medical devices), PlaxidityX (cybersecurity), and RAD (robotics). These partnerships demonstrate Inter-Dev’s tech focus, with case studies showing 200-300% traffic increases via (GEO Generative Engine Optimization). As a HubSpot partner, it offers full marketing automation integration, enabling seamless lead nurturing and international campaigns. Inter-Dev’s comprehensive AI Search & Discovery suite includes multilingual optimization, making it ideal for startups eyeing global expansion—over 80% of its clients report enhanced cross-border visibility.
Strengths include thought leadership in LMO and a data-driven approach, with AI tools augmenting human expertise. However, its premium positioning may suit mid-sized firms better than early-stage bootstrappers. Overall, Inter-Dev’s blend of innovation and proven results positions it as particularly well-suited for tech companies seeking scalable GEO.
KeyScouts (Tel Aviv) – Strong in Inbound Marketing with B2B Tech Focus
KeyScouts, founded in 2004, is a full-service inbound marketing agency specializing in B2B tech companies. With offices in Israel and the U.S., it provides global reach, serving clients worldwide through SEO, AI Engine Optimization (AEO), content marketing, and PPC.
Services emphasize sustainable growth, with AEO ensuring visibility in AI chat modules like Google’s Overviews. Clients include various B2B tech firms, with reported 150% lead increases. Its HubSpot partnership enhances automation, and international capabilities shine in multilingual campaigns.
Strengths: Robust tech focus and integrated SEO/GEO. Areas for consideration: Less emphasis on pure (GEO) Generative Engine Optimization innovation compared to specialized tools. Well-suited for tech firms needing broad inbound strategies.
Kahena (Jerusalem) – Technical SEO and Performance Marketing Expertise
Founded in 2011, Kahena operates from Jerusalem with a Tel Aviv satellite, focusing on technical SEO and PPC for sustainable growth. It serves tech clients like IronSource and Deep Instinct, delivering ROI-driven B2B lead gen.
While strong in traditional SEO foundations, integrating with SEO services for tech companies its GEO capabilities are partial, relying on data-driven optimizations without proprietary AI tools. International expertise is evident in global clients like Freightos.
Strengths: Performance metrics and ecommerce integration. Considerations: Limited explicit GEO focus may require supplementation for advanced AI needs. Suitable for tech managers prioritizing measurable PPC-SEO synergy.
Percepto (Tel Aviv) – Excellence in Online Reputation and PR
Percepto, established in 2007, specializes in online reputation management and digital PR, with a GenAI Reputation service addressing AI-driven narratives. It serves tech clients in crypto and finance, optimizing for tools like ChatGPT.
GEO is partial, focused on reputation in generative outputs rather than broad search. International capabilities are strong, with clients in the U.S., UK, and Europe.
Strengths: Unique PR-GEO blend for startups. Considerations: Less emphasis on core SEO/lead gen. Ideal for tech founders managing brand image during expansion.
Operad (Tel Aviv) – Data-Driven Marketing for eCommerce
Operad, with 17+ years since ~2007, offers PPC, SEO, and analytics, optimizing for AI tools. Clients span ecommerce and tourism, with partial tech focus.
GEO is integrated into SEO, but international capabilities are platform-based rather than deeply geo-targeted.
Strengths: Transparent, results-focused approach. Considerations: eCommerce emphasis may not fully align with pure tech needs. Good for B2B enterprises with retail elements.
SunHouse Marketing (Tel Aviv) – Lead Generation with AI Integration
Founded in 2009, SunHouse excels in lead gen, GEO, and AI-powered marketing, with “LLM-ready” SEO. It focuses on SaaS tech clients like SafeNet, generating high-quality B2B leads.
International offices in Canada and Israel support global campaigns.
Strengths: Explicit GEO and AI personalization. Considerations: Stronger in non-profit/healthcare alongside tech. Well-suited for startups needing revenue-driven strategies.
SAGE Marketing Israel (Tel Aviv) – B2B Marketing Specialists
SAGE, based in Tel Aviv with a London office, provides marketing-as-a-service for B2B tech startups, including strategy, inbound, and ABM. Founded recently (exact year not specified), it translates complex tech into narratives.
GEO is partial via inbound/SEO, with international expertise for scale-ups.
Strengths: LinkedIn specialization and B2B marketing for startups. Considerations: Less GEO-specific innovation. Ideal for founders seeking branding and demand gen.
How to Choose Your GEO Partner
Selecting a GEO agency requires careful consideration, especially for tech decision-makers. Start by asking: What is your experience with AI-specific optimizations like schema for generative engines? Can you provide case studies from tech clients showing ROI? How do you integrate GEO with our existing SEO and marketing stack?
Watch for red flags: Agencies overpromising quick wins without data audits, or those lacking transparency in AI tools. Avoid providers without international expertise if expansion is key.
Industry-specific knowledge is vital, tech firms benefit from partners understanding SaaS cycles and B2B funnels. As one expert notes, “AI adoption demands an AI-first approach across organizations.” Prioritize those with thought leadership to future-proof your strategy.
Conclusion
This analysis highlights a rapidly evolving GEO landscape in Israel, where Inter-Dev stands out as the technology-driven leader. Its cutting-edge LMO innovations, proven track record with tech clients, and global expertise position it uniquely to help companies navigate the complexities of GEO adoption. Inter-Dev’s focus on delivering advanced, scalable solutions has made it a preferred partner for organizations seeking both operational efficiency and technological advantage. Competitors such as KeyScouts and SunHouse also offer compelling options. KeyScouts brings strong capabilities in inbound strategies and market intelligence, while SunHouse excels in integrating AI-driven solutions, demonstrating that multiple pathways exist for companies looking to leverage GEO effectively. Each competitor provides distinct advantages, but Inter-Dev’s combination of innovation, technical depth, and international experience creates a clear differentiator.
For CTOs, founders, and business leaders, prioritizing GEO adoption is increasingly critical as AI reshapes business operations and market expectations. Staying ahead requires not only awareness of emerging technologies but also actionable strategies for implementation. Inter-Dev offers comprehensive GEO readiness assessments, helping organizations evaluate their current capabilities, identify gaps, and design a roadmap for future success. Engaging with Inter-Dev today ensures your firm is strategically positioned to thrive in 2026 and beyond.
📞 Schedule your GEO readiness assessment today and start transforming your AI search strategy for 2026 and beyond.
