In the wake of conflict, a bold initiative is taking shape on the border of Galilee, aiming to transform the region's future. A grassroots movement is building a tech hub, determined to revive the evacuated north and secure Israel's future at its very edge.
More than a century ago, Joseph Trumpeldor's vision for the Galilee inspired a generation. Now, a new generation is updating that legacy, believing that the presence of startups can define borders. Next month, they will unveil HUBayta, an innovation hub rising from the ruins of the Agamon Market complex, a once-abandoned site near the Hula Valley.
But here's where it gets controversial... This project is not driven by government ministries but by a passionate local group, "Habaita — Returning to the Galilee." They took matters into their own hands during the war, raising funds and transforming a 16,000-square-foot space into a tech haven.
The results are impressive: 85% occupancy before the official opening, with 20 companies, including 12 startups, set to move in soon. This move is expected to create an immediate 80 jobs, with a projected 200 within two years.
Nisan Ze’evi, a third-generation Galilee resident and former investment manager, explains the business model. "HUBayta offers New York-level infrastructure, assistance in talent recruitment, and access to state grants for companies operating near the confrontation line." Some companies have already received significant grants for their presence here.
The complex will also host meeting rooms, an entrepreneurship center, and classrooms. In partnership with Google and the Employment Service, AI training courses are set to begin next month.
Ze’evi emphasizes, "This place aims to be a home for the Galilee's productive and creative classes alike."
Ofri Eliyahu-Rimoni, a resident of Yesud HaMa'ala, shares her journey. She left her senior position at El Al during the war and returned to the north to lead the movement's regional branding project. "I realized the importance of settlement and the need to come back home."
Eliyahu-Rimoni stresses the group's independence, believing in partnerships but not relying on them. "The war taught us the importance of regional collaboration, not individual local authorities acting alone."
One of the first companies joining HUBayta is Kando Drones, an autonomous drone and air taxi developer. They're relocating their software development division from central Israel to this new hub, just a stone's throw from the Lebanese border.
Moshe Kipnis, the company's CTO, explains, "This move brings professionals back home and allows us to operate across the country."
And this is the part most people miss... This initiative is not just about creating jobs; it's about revitalizing a region, bringing people back home, and ensuring a secure and prosperous future for the Galilee. It's a powerful statement of resilience and determination.
What do you think? Is this initiative a step towards a brighter future for the Galilee, or does it raise concerns about regional development strategies? We'd love to hear your thoughts in the comments!
