Haifa Seeks Investors for Hundreds of Millions in Real Estate and Tourism Projects

The Economic Company for Haifa, the development arm of the Haifa Municipality, is launching an initiative to attract entrepreneurs and investors from Israel and abroad to advance new projects within the city. The company has issued an official Request for Information (RFI) inviting corporations, investment funds, and business entities to propose ventures in real estate, energy, tourism, infrastructure, and defense-tech. The objective is to identify economically viable projects that can begin development as early as 2027. Uniquely, the company is also exploring options to participate financially in investments, provide assets, assist with planning and licensing processes, or connect entrepreneurs with business partners. This initial information-gathering phase does not commit the company to any specific project investment.

The RFI, dated October 11, seeks ventures with clear business models, funding sources, and realistic timelines, emphasizing projects that will boost Haifa's economic activity, attract private investment, and create new jobs. Key areas of interest include income-generating real estate, such as business parks and commercial centers, as well as tourism infrastructure, hospitality facilities, and attractions. The company is also looking for energy projects focused on electricity generation, storage, and urban infrastructure, and defense-tech initiatives involving advanced security technologies, AI, and cyber. Haifa's existing strengths in defense industries, academia, and technology are seen as advantages for attracting new R&D and investment.

The Economic Company for Haifa manages assets valued at approximately NIS 2 billion, with a 2026 budget of around NIS 160 million. The current year's work plan includes an investment budget of approximately NIS 115 million. These figures are separate from potential investments in the newly solicited projects. Entrepreneurs are required to submit detailed business plans, including estimated budgets, funding sources, revenue forecasts, timelines, and relevant experience, along with specifying the type of support they seek from the Economic Company.

Rani Bander, Chairman of the Economic Company for Haifa, stated that the company aims to drive new business opportunities locally and internationally to expand Haifa's economy, assisting entrepreneurs in developing new business models within the city's core sectors. He added that the company seeks to develop projects worth tens to hundreds of millions of shekels, involving capital investment and practical support. CEO Hanan Markowitz noted that the initiative aims to identify ventures that will generate quality employment, attract investment, and increase the city's economic revenue.