MARGALIT

About the Organization

Margalit Startup City Galilee is an international center for innovation and impact in the field of foodtech, founded by Dr. Erel Margalit, founder and chairman of JVP.
Operating out of Kiryat Shmona, the center leads a vision of branding the Eastern Galilee as Israel’s FoodTech Valley — a vibrant hub of innovation, entrepreneurship, and community resilience.

This vision is realized through bold partnerships, unwavering belief in the region’s potential, and connections between startups, research institutions, corporations, government, and the community.
Even during challenging times such as the COVID-19 pandemic and the war, operations never stopped — and today, the center serves as a regional anchor for economic, technological, and social growth.

Core Activities

GAIA – The ClimateTech Innovation Center
A partnership between JVP, MIGAL, and government ministries, supporting early-stage startups through acceleration, business development, international connections, and access to investment opportunities.

Women’s Entrepreneurship Community in the Galilee and the Golan
Over 2,000 Jewish, Arab, and Druze women receive business support, mentoring, networking, and leadership opportunities — advancing women-led innovation.

Growth Lab for Local Businesses
An acceleration program for small and medium-sized businesses in the Galilee, focusing on strategic development, access to new markets, and digital transformation — especially during times of crisis.

Art, Science & Technology Youth Program
A multidisciplinary initiative enabling children and teenagers to develop creative, real-world solutions in collaboration with artists and scientists.

GALILIVE – Platform for Culture and Creativity
A growing stage for music, performances, and art in the Galilee, fostering identity, dialogue, and community connection through creativity.