Nearly 40 percent of technology firms that were based in northern Israel prior to October 2023 have restarted operations there, based on updated statistics shared at the 12th Food Innovation Conference held at Tel-Hai University in Kiryat Shmona.

As a fragile ceasefire with Lebanon persists, these numbers indicate a recovery in the tech industry of the north.

Prior to the conflict, 204 high-tech enterprises operated in the Eastern Galilee, with 80 specializing in AgriFood Tech. Throughout almost three years of hostilities, numerous businesses relocated away from the border areas. Merely seven stayed, two of which were in AgriFood Tech.

Collaborative efforts involving Tel-Hai University, MIGAL, local authorities, and donors have facilitated the return of 80 companies, including 27 in AgriFood Tech.

Ofer Rivlin, CEO of the AgriFood Tech Northern Partnership, stated that intensive work is underway to restore hi-tech firms, such as FoodTech and AgriTech startups, to the Galilee and draw in additional ones. This is essential as it serves as the primary driver for growth in the Eastern Galilee and will enable entrepreneurs and leaders to establish the region as a worldwide frontrunner in food and agricultural innovation.

At the event, Tel-Hai University presented its plan to bolster the region as an AgriFoodTech center blending research with business ventures. Students showcased innovative food items reflecting nutrition, sustainability, and health trends, such as a knafeh-flavored cereal, vegan fish sauce, plant-based jerky, and keto bread.

The conference inaugurated the NIS 30 million FoodTech Boulevard in Kiryat Shmona, a venue to unite research, tech development, startups, and industry. This forms part of the NIS 55 million National Food Institute aimed at solidifying the Galilee's position in food security advancements.

Prof. Eyal Shimoni, deputy vice president for research and development at Tel-Hai University, noted that the center seeks to build supportive infrastructure and a hub for firms returning to the North.

During the nearly three years of intense conflict with Hezbollah, northern Israel was mostly abandoned, prompting many companies to depart. With relative calm at the border, some have come back, though not all.

Not everyone will return, Shimoni remarked. We reside in Israel and many doubt whether the war has truly concluded. We have established this supportive setting to encourage companies to return; there is no alternative. We must persist in our efforts regardless of circumstances.

Located several kilometers from the Lebanese frontier, Tel-Hai University is an expanding research entity concentrating on food security, sustainable farming, engineering, artificial intelligence, and related disciplines.

With the global population nearing nine billion, the new facility is very focused on AgriFood Tech and will strive to make the Galilee a hub for international food-security innovation, as Shimoni described.