More than 100 human resources professionals and business leaders gathered at the Galilee Culinary Institute (GCI) in Kibbutz Gonen, overlooking the Hula Valley, to discuss ways to strengthen northern Israel's economy. Organized by Jewish National Fund-USA's Lauder Employment Center, the conference brought together employers, local businesses and industry representatives to explore how to expand job opportunities, attract investment and encourage more Israelis to build their futures in the Galilee.
global - JNF-USA GCI
(Credit: Gil Nehushtan)
For Debbie Freedman, chief human resources officer at Jewish National Fund-USA, employment is central to the organization's broader vision for regional development.
“Employment fits into the vision of Jewish National Fund-USA because it's the heart of life,” she explained.
Jobs allow residents to support themselves, contribute to local businesses and sustain their communities. Freedman also emphasized the pioneering spirit of younger generations seeking opportunities to build something meaningful. With its landscapes, communities and potential for growth, she believes the Galilee can attract young Israelis looking to establish their futures in the North.
The conference took place at GCI, a center for culinary tourism, hospitality, education and regional development. Anna Ovadia, sales and business development manager at GCI, explained that the institute is already creating jobs for local residents while working to attract tourists, organized groups and companies seeking experiences in the region.
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For Debbie Freedman, chief human resources officer at Jewish National Fund-USA, employment is central to the organization's broader vision for regional development
(Photo: Screenshot)
But its ambitions extend beyond hospitality.
“We're going to grow,” Ovadia said, outlining plans to position the Upper Galilee and Hula Valley as a culinary destination comparable to Napa Valley in California or Tuscany in Italy.
Education and professional development are also central to those plans. In January 2027, GCI plans to welcome the first class of its Rosenfield School of Culinary Arts, with applications currently open.
The 12-month program will combine culinary education, agriculture, innovation and entrepreneurship, providing students with practical skills and opening new career opportunities in northern Israel. The school is part of a broader effort to establish the Galilee not only as a tourist destination but also as a place to study, work and contribute to the local economy.
In January 2027, GCI plans to welcome the first class of its Rosenfield School of Culinary Arts, with applications currently open
(Photo: Screenshot)
That effort also depends on strengthening the surrounding business community. Through partnerships with local farmers, wineries, suppliers and small businesses, GCI aims to generate economic activity beyond its own facilities. For Ovadia, the institute's connection to the land and local communities is central to its mission, linking culinary tourism and education with regional economic development.
Peleg Rotem, HR business lead at Amdocs, emphasized the importance of turning optimism into action. She encouraged companies to recognize the professional talent available in northern Israel and consider opening additional offices and operations in the region.
“We have quality people here. They can do more than an excellent job, as well as the people in the center,” Rotem said.
The Galilee Culinary Institute
(Photo: Bat-El Yehodai)
Establishing new business sites in the North, she said, would benefit both employers and the wider Israeli economy.
“To create hope, we need to do hope,” she added, emphasizing that meaningful progress requires practical steps rather than discussions alone.
The conference also provided an opportunity for businesses of different sizes to connect and explore potential partnerships. For Rotem, seeing those companies come together was itself a reason for optimism.
The discussions highlighted a challenge facing northern Israel: Economic recovery requires more than rebuilding infrastructure. It also means creating jobs, investing in education, supporting local businesses and giving residents reasons to remain in the region.
For the employers, educators and business leaders gathered in the Galilee, the next step is translating those ambitions into employment opportunities, investment and lasting economic growth.