Summary:
Mahmoud Khweis aims to boost East Jerusalem's startup scene through Jinnovate.
Techlinic has trained 120 locals in software development, marking a significant step in tech education.
Jinnovate is the first health-tech accelerator in East Jerusalem, currently supporting 14 startups.
Funding includes $2.7 million from the Israel Innovation Authority and support from USAID.
Innovative startups like Healers and Line of Sight are addressing critical health challenges.
Israel is renowned for its vibrant startup ecosystem, boasting more startups and unicorns per capita than any other nation. However, much of this innovation is concentrated in areas like Tel Aviv and Haifa, leaving East Jerusalem with minimal startup activity among its predominantly Arab population of 400,000.
Mahmoud Khweis, a notable entrepreneur and former negotiator, aims to change this narrative. In October 2021, he established Techlinic, the first Palestinian-owned tech firm in East Jerusalem, providing software development training to local residents.
A Helping Hand
Startups require more than just a great idea to thrive; they need office space, mentorship, business skills, and access to funding. Khweis highlights the lack of an innovation ecosystem in East Jerusalem, stating that there are currently no incubators or sufficient support from local governments.
At Jinnovate, the Jerusalem Innovation Health-Tech Center, Khweis provides vital resources, mentorship, and training for those with innovative ideas in the health sector, particularly addressing unmet health needs. The center has garnered almost $2.7 million in funding from the Israel Innovation Authority, alongside contributions from USAID and the Jerusalem municipality.
The First Jinnovate Startups
Among the startups nurtured by Jinnovate is Healers, which is innovating a new cutting device for thoracic surgeries, greatly reducing infection risks. Line of Sight is leveraging AI to improve surgical outcomes during jaw corrections, while Mirror Digital focuses on integrating patient records across different management systems. Khweis aims for the first Arab startup exit in five years, a notable milestone for the region.
Innovation in Hospitals
Jinnovate is also initiating a cultural shift in local hospitals, encouraging innovation. Collaborations with leading medical centers like Sheba and Shaare Zedek are paving the way for the establishment of an innovation center within East Jerusalem hospitals, which have historically lacked resources for advanced patient care.
Despite the ongoing challenges, Khweis remains optimistic about fostering a sustainable startup ecosystem in East Jerusalem. He believes that with the right support and collaboration, the area can become a hub of innovation and entrepreneurship.
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