Our Team

The team of Haifa Innovation Labs (HIL), the Center for Innovation and Entrepreneurship at the University of Haifa, brings together a unique blend of academic expertise, practical experience, and a deep commitment to social impact. Led by Prof. Ofer Arazy, the center focuses on fostering innovation, sustainability, and entrepreneurship across the university’s various disciplines. With Elik Almog driving accelerator programs, Tomer Udi managing operations and social innovation initiatives, and Rawya Hammad building a strong and engaged mentor and alumni community, HIL is a vibrant hub that connects students, researchers, industry professionals, and changemakers to create real world impact.


 

Prof. Ofer Arazy, Head of Innovation and Sustainability, University of Haifa

Head of the Innovation and Sustainability Division at the University of Haifa and Leading the university’s Haifa Innovation Labs (HIL). His research focuses on virtual communities, online collaboration, knowledge management, and augmented reality. He has also held various roles in the tech industry, including serving as Operations Manager at the software company Jacada.  Linkedin


 

Elik Almog, Director 

Leads the HIL Fund Accelerator Program – Mind Ventures. Lecturer in the Department of Maritime Strategy, School of Marine Sciences. An experienced impact entrepreneur in the fields of social welfare, health, policy, and the environment. Co-founder and CEO of OtheReality, a company developing an innovative platform for training empathy skills through virtual reality. Linkedin


 

Tomer Udi, Operations Manager 

Leads HIL’s day-to-day operations and oversees all programs. In parallel, as a doctoral candidate in the field of digital sociology, his research explores the concept of digital identity and the influence of social networks and digital technologies on identity formation. Tomer has specialized in advancing internationalization in higher education, as well as in the marketing and development of international academic programs. Linkedin


 

Rawya Hammad, Community Manager 

Holds a Master’s degree in Public Administration and Policy from the Executive Program at the University of Haifa. She brings extensive experience in managing projects in the fields of entrepreneurship and educational innovation, integrating 21st-century skills, training and motivating leadership teams and staff, and leading initiatives to promote the integration of academics into the high-tech industry. Rawiya builds and leads the HIL mentor community, fostering meaningful connections between participants, mentors, and stakeholders, and advancing a thriving professional network. Linkedin 

 
 
Photos by: Carmit Rokah