Detailed Description of Program Components cont.

4. The Establishment of a Center for Economic Research in the North

In cooperation with the TSAFONA Development Co. Ltd and the Israel Ministry for Galilee-Negev Development, a center for economic research will be developed in the north. The center will deal primarily with macro-economics and strategies that will aid in identifying future economic directions in and for the northern region; possible cooperative ventures between businesses from the north and central regions, between various population sectors in the north (Arabs and Jews) and serve as the country's national research center for economic issues in the north.

The Center will include a Northern Business Training and Guidance Institute that will conduct various courses related to business development in the north. Courses will be for businesses receiving aid - they will receive the guidance necessary to ensure turning received aid into a successful business, and for those businesses that wish to grow or change direction to meet future needs.

Estimated cost for implementation:  $5,000,000