Empowering Arab entrepreneurs through innovation, ecosystem building, and quality employment to maximize impact and strengthen Arab presence in the high-tech ecosystem.

— Northmed Vision

NorthMed Innovation Center is a leading MedTech and HealthTech hub located in Sakhnin, at the heart of the Galilee.

We empower entrepreneurs, startups, and professionals from the northern and Arab communities to develop transformative technologies that address real medical needs.

As part of Israel’s Innovation Authority network of regional innovation centers, NorthMed serves as a gateway to the national high-tech ecosystem—connecting startups to investors, industry partners, hospitals, and academic institutions.

Through tailored programs, mentorship, and access to a multidisciplinary network, we help innovators turn ideas into viable ventures that improve lives and drive economic growth in the region.

Mission

From Ideas to Impact

NorthMed’s mission is to enable Arab entrepreneurs and professionals to turn groundbreaking ideas into impactful medical technologies.
We provide access to funding, expert mentorship, and strong industry connections, while promoting quality employment and hands-on experience in the medtech sector.

By strengthening the ecosystem and nurturing local talent, we’re creating lasting social and economic impact positioning the North as a leading center for Arab-led innovation in healthcare

Team

Annie Kaufman
— CEO

An experienced leader in the medical device industry with senior roles at Johnson & Johnson, Candela, and Roche. Annie brings over 20 years of experience in managing multidisciplinary teams, product strategy, and commercialization in the global medtech sector. She leads NorthMed’s strategic growth and partnerships, driving innovation and inclusion across the northern ecosystem.

Dr. Rami Shinnawi, MD, PhD
— CTO

A physician and biomedical scientist with dual expertise in medicine and medical engineering. Rami has led R&D initiatives in medical device startups including AntiShock and has collaborated with the Technion and leading healthcare institutions. At NorthMed, he oversees the technological and scientific direction of innovation programs and startup support.

Samer Abboud
— Chief Business Development Officer (CBO)

A biomedical engineer and serial entrepreneur with more than 15 years experience in the Medical Device industry. Co-Founder and CEO of Pulsetech Medical, a startup in the field of Neuromodulation and previously CEO at SwiftDuct a startup in the field of Gastro Endoscopy. As a CBO, Samer drives NorthMed’s strategic partnerships, investor relations, and ecosystem collaborations to accelerate startup growth and regional impact. Samer holds a B.Sc. in Biomedical Engineering from the Technion and MBA (International Program), University of Haifa.

Randa Abbas
— Chief Innovation Officer

A senior innovation and business executive with extensive experience in the medtech industry, including leadership positions at Nurami Medical, BioChange, Enzymotec, and Syneron. Randa leads NorthMed’s innovation programs, mentoring activities, and collaborations with hospitals, startups, and corporate partners to bring impactful technologies to life.

Lena Kanaaneh
— Employment Center Manager

An ecosystem builder with strong experience in workforce development and diversity programs through organizations such as Personetics, Tsofen, and Galil Software. Lena manages NorthMed’s employment and community initiatives, connecting local talent with meaningful opportunities in technology and healthcare.

Hadeel Yawer
— Operations Manager

An operations and project management professional with 9 years experience in HR, recruitment and operations. Hadeel ensures smooth coordination of NorthMed’s programs, events, and partnerships, supporting both the center’s day-to-day operations and long-term strategic initiatives. Hadeel holds a bachelor’s degree in Human Resources from Haifa University.