Former 8200 Chief Launches AI Startup Eyeing Government Deals

Brig. Gen. (res.) Yossi Sariel, who headed Unit 8200 during the October 7 attack, has founded a new AI accessibility startup called Alma Labs. According to corporate records, the company was incorporated on February 3, 2026, as Sariel was transitioning to civilian life after leaving the military following roughly three decades of service. Sariel and his partner, Ori David Alter, each hold 48.2% of the shares and serve as directors.

People familiar with the matter said Alma Labs is already in contact with several government bodies and could eventually become an exclusive service provider to the state in its field. The company is focused on AI learning platforms, especially education and the delivery of knowledge to children and young people. Its newly launched website describes a platform for middle-school students that teaches AI through creation and problem-solving tools, while also providing pedagogical support for teachers and schools.

The site says Alma Labs works with schools, local authorities, education networks and national education initiatives, and is seeking new partners ahead of the 2026 to 2027 school year. However, it does not specify which institutions are involved. Globs reported that no tenders or formal contracting procedures have been published yet, so the scope of any potential government deal remains unclear.

The company’s cofounder, Alter, is a well-known Israeli cyber entrepreneur who helped found Cyabra, later sold to Palo Alto Networks in 2014 for about $200 million, and Vdoo, an IoT security company. Another senior Decart AI executive, Michal Dovdovbani Msika, also holds about 250,000 shares, or 2.5% of Alma Labs, though her role in the new startup is not yet clear. Sariel is expected to keep serving as a member of Decart’s management team while also leading Alma Labs as CEO.