Northern Israel Sees Ongoing Growth and Innovation Ahead of Galilee Conference 2026
Northern Israel is undergoing significant transformation focused on security, employment, and sustainable growth, moving beyond merely repairing past damages to shaping a new long-term reality. Ahead of the Galilee Conference 2026, scheduled for August 11 in Safed, which will address the region's security and economic needs, key initiatives in Kiryat Shmona and Nahariya highlight efforts to turn plans and budgets into visible change.
In Kiryat Shmona's Margalit Startup City, Danny Koten, director of the demographic growth initiative under the Ministry of the Negev, Galilee, and National Resilience, shared his personal story of relocating from Tel Aviv after the October 7 attacks. Despite initial resistance from his children, they now embrace the city for its excellent education, nature, and community. Koten emphasized that economic incentives alone are insufficient; building strong community connections is crucial for attracting and retaining families. The initiative supports about ten absorption communities tailored to various groups, including doctors, high-tech professionals, religious and secular families.
Yohanan Mali, CEO of the Ministry of the Negev, Galilee, and National Resilience, explained that demographic growth requires a holistic approach integrating community, education, employment, and quality of life. The ministry is fostering ecosystems of innovation and high-tech in several northern cities, including Kiryat Shmona, Katzrin, Tiberias, and Carmiel. Mali measures success by the increase in first-grade enrollment along the conflict line, indicating genuine population growth and revitalization.
Dina Gilad, CEO of the Shamir Research Institute, described plans for a new 2,000-square-meter innovation and applied R&D center in the Golan Heights. This center will connect researchers, startups, farmers, and local industries to implement technological advances in the field. Gilad stressed the importance of advanced infrastructure, business support, and family-friendly conditions to retain talent.
In Nahariya, city CEO Dudu Elhiani outlined ambitions to develop a high-tech park, expand the marina, improve infrastructure, and establish a significant academic institution. With a population nearing 80,000, Nahariya aims to become the economic anchor of the western Galilee, providing quality employment, education, and cultural life to attract residents rather than just visitors.
Together, these initiatives reflect a northern Israel that is not merely seeking to restore its past but to build a new advantage that will attract families, researchers, entrepreneurs, and companies for years to come. The Galilee Conference 2026 will convene in Safed’s Yigal Alon Cultural Hall under the theme "Restoring Security to the North."