NIS 36 million invested in Cutting-Edge Human Capital Programs

Training human capital for cutting-Edge technological sectors such as Quantum, AI, Cleantech, Foodtech, and Bio-Convergence

Israel Innovation Authority to Invest NIS 36 million in Cutting-Edge Human Capital Programs for Quantum, AI, Cleantech, Foodtech, and Bio-Convergence Industries 

Some 2,000 participants to participate in 20 innovative programs over next two years to develop human capital for the future technology trends of the Israeli high-tech industry. 

The Israel Innovation Authority announced today the launch of a 36 million NIS fund for innovative human capital programs aimed at fostering expertise in quantum, AI, cleantech, foodtech, and Bio-Convergence. Through the joint governmental and private sector investment, approximately 2,000 participants will take part in 20 transformative programs over the next two years, with the primary objective of cultivating the future technology pioneers for the Israeli high-tech industry and sustaining the country’s global technological leadership in innovation. 

The call for proposals, based on the Authority’s program known as “Human Capital Fund for High-Tech”, was launched in March 2023 to establish specialized human capital by offering training and qualifications in advanced technological fields. The Israel Innovation Authority, in response to the recommendations of the National Infrastructure Forum for Research and Development (Telem), will allocate a significant portion of approximately 5 million NIS to enable in-depth training for the integration of skilled professionals into the quantum computing industry. 

Additionally, two groundbreaking pilot programs, developed in collaboration with the Ministry of Defense, have been approved to train and place Druze community members in crucial roles in artificial intelligence, AgriTech, and water technology (Water-Tech). 
From 49 program proposals received, 20 were selected to operate across the country. These programs will receive a cumulative government grant of 19.8 million NIS to facilitate the training and placement of 1,920 graduates from diverse populations. 

Ofir Akunis, Minister of Innovation, Science and Technology: “The launch of this program is another essential step for the training and diversification of human capital in Israeli hi-tech. This focus, on areas of high national priority, and on the diversity of human capital which has distinguished Israel for many years, will allow us to lead and make breakthroughs in the hi-tech industry and the global economy as it is recovering in Israel and over the world.” 

Dror Bin, CEO of the Israel Innovation Authority, said, “The Israel Innovation Authority has been actively working to broaden the thematic diversity of the Israeli innovation ecosystem beyond cybersecurity, software, and fintech. By focusing on emerging areas that align with future technology trends, we aim to positively impact all aspects of life in the coming decades. The selected innovative programs cater to market demands and address areas that require skilled and qualified human capital. I am confident that these programs will drive the development of exceptional talent tailored to the industry’s needs and future technology waves.” 

Selected Programs: 

1. The Hebrew University – This program will train candidates in high-demand areas of the food technology industry. It offers a two-stage training process, including theoretical and practical training in the foodtech hub. Emphasis is placed on core areas of the food technology world, such as cultured meat, fermentation, and protein separation. 
2. Elevation Education – The Food Techies program, developed in collaboration with the Agri-FoodTech industry in the Galilee, aims to train human resources for in-demand roles in the food technology sector. It promotes cross-sector collaboration and trains professionals for new professions in this field. 
3. The Technion – Focused on innovation and entrepreneurship in food technology and biotechnology for academics in relevant fields or experienced individuals. 
4. Master School – Targets outstanding graduates with degrees in exact sciences or experienced engineers, particularly quantum software developers working on quantum algorithm development and quantum computing applications. 
5. Science Abroad – A program designed to identify Israeli researchers in the field of quantum, based on potential employers’ needs from both industry and academia. The program aims to establish a platform for connecting researchers with suitable positions. 
6. Elevation Education – This program’s goal is to produce technological knowledge carriers for Israel’s security industries, focusing on the application of quantum technological concepts in various projects to ensure the country’s technological superiority. 
7. The Technion – An in-depth training program covering topics such as quantum computing and quantum sensors, providing engineering graduates with specialized knowledge in this unique area. 
8. Brainstorm IL – Provides in-depth training for advanced and undergraduate graduates in research and development in the high-tech industry, with a focus on Bio-Convergence. The program fosters collaboration between life sciences and technology fields, offering practical experience and placement in companies upon program completion. 
9. 8200 Alumni Association – A unique entrepreneurship program, established in collaboration with Beilinson Hospital, aMoon Fund, and Amazon AWS. Participants explore various hospital departments to identify clinical needs, learn about health economics and regulation, and establish new companies in the biomedicine sector. 
10. AYYT Technological Applications and Data – This program combines 3D technology, computer science, and practical knowledge in bio-convergence to be at the forefront of the HealthTech revolution. 
11. Ramot at Tel Aviv University – Offers academic education and development focused on the regulatory aspects of medical bio-convergence products. The program provides online, dedicated, and progressive courses for industry professionals to understand the challenges and possible solutions in regulating medical bio-convergence products. 
12. Rambam Medical Center – BioDesign Israel is a training center for medical innovation and entrepreneurship operating in collaboration with Stanford University. The program includes human capital in technology, life sciences, medicine, and business, integrating them into innovative and entrepreneurial opportunities in medicine and bio-convergence. 
13. Jordan Valley Academic College – Provides innovative training routes in Agri-Tech and Water-Tech fields, expanding the knowledge of existing employees and training new talent. Emphasis is placed on soft skills, industry connections, and guidance for placement in technology fields. 
14. Epsilon Climate – The climatech entrepreneurs training program aims to establish companies with high business and climate potential. It provides aspiring entrepreneurs and early-stage teams with unique tools and knowledge and creates an extensive network of experts and stakeholders in the climate-tech world. 
15. RACHIP VERIFICATION LTD – Training for Haredi Female Engineers in AI/ML Module Development and Integration. This program focuses on AI/ML module development and integration, equipping Haredi female engineers with essential skills in Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning. 
16. IDC Tech – A one-year training program combining advanced knowledge acquisition in Data Science and Artificial Intelligence with practical training in the Israeli hi-tech industry. 
17. Extra-tech – A specialized training program in AI, in collaboration with technology giants in Israel, to promote quality positions for students and graduates from the Haredi society in the field of Artificial Intelligence. 
18. StellarAI – A practical training program to prepare participants on the autism spectrum to work in the role of Data QA (Quality Assurance) for AI development in knowledge-intensive industries. 
19. Infinity Labs – Provides advanced training for science graduates, with a focus on life sciences and research areas in Artificial Intelligence, including AI researchers, image and video processing, natural language processing, audio processing, sensor data processing, and Generative AI. 
20. The Technion – A training track designed for the Druze community in the field of Artificial Intelligence, covering Python development, data analysis, machine learning, Google Cloud Platform (GCP) services, and more. 

 
The Israel Innovation Authority looks forward to witnessing the positive impact of these programs on the Israeli high-tech industry, ensuring continued growth, innovation, and global leadership in emerging technological domains.