Israel's Pais Foundation Awards 1.35 Million Shekels for Arts and Sciences

Mifal HaPais, Israel's national lottery, has opened nominations for its 2027 Landau Awards for Arts and Sciences, offering a total of 1.35 million shekels in grants. Each of the nine recipients will receive 150,000 shekels. The awards aim to honor artists, scientists, and researchers who have made groundbreaking achievements and significant contributions in their fields, both in Israel and globally.

Eight professional awards will be distributed equally across humanities, arts, and exact sciences. Categories include poetry, small theater groups, sculpture, Israeli music ensembles, linguistics, quantum physics, neurodegenerative disease research, and immigration. Additionally, a special award, named in memory of Avigdor Yitzhaki, will be presented to a non-profit organization dedicated to integrating individuals with disabilities and special needs into Israeli society, recognizing significant social contributions that promote inclusion and equal opportunities.

Itzik Laari, Chairman of Mifal HaPais, stated that the Landau Awards reflect the organization's commitment to recognizing and honoring those who advance culture, art, and science in Israel, especially during challenging times. He emphasized the importance of highlighting Israeli excellence, innovation, and creativity, which also gain international recognition. Laari added that the strength of a society is measured not only by its achievements but also by its ability to provide opportunities for everyone.

The Landau Awards, named after Mifal HaPais's first chairman Michael Landau, have been presented annually since 2000. Winners are selected by professional judging committees composed of leading scientists, academics, artists, and previous Landau Award laureates. Nominations are open on the website of Mifal HaPais's Council for Culture and Arts until December 6th and can be submitted by the nominees themselves or by a third party.