A massive transformation is underway in the heart of the Negev, where the Jewish National Fund USA (JNF-USA) has officially launched the search for the architects who will build its flagship project. With a staggering investment of 1.2 billion NIS, the “World Zionist Village” is set to become a 65-dunam global hub for education, innovation, and Jewish identity, redefining the relationship between Israel and the Diaspora.
The Blueprint for a New Zionist Era
- A Historic Investment: JNF-USA is pouring 1.2 billion NIS into Be’er Sheva to create a physical bridge between international Jewry and Israel.
- Eco-Innovation: The 65-dunam campus is designed to be car-free on the surface and operate at near-zero energy levels.
- Architectural Hunt: Following master plan approval, a “Call for Proposals” seeks Israeli architects to execute the detailed design.
- Strategic Timeline: Infrastructure work begins in 2025, construction in 2026, with a grand opening slated for 2028.
A Billion-Shekel Bridge Between Israel and the Diaspora
The vision for the World Zionist Village is nothing short of a reimagining of modern Zionism. Managed by the Waxman Group with a master plan by HQ Architects, this project has already secured approval from the Be’er Sheva Local Planning and Building Committee. Now, the initiative enters a critical phase: selecting the Israeli architectural firms that will translate this ambitious vision into reality.
The campus is designed to be a living, breathing center for Zionist dialogue. It targets both Jews and non-Jews who view Zionism as a pivotal movement of the modern era. By placing this hub in Be’er Sheva, JNF-USA is reinforcing its commitment to the Negev, expecting the site to draw tens of thousands of students and visitors annually. It will house an interactive learning center on Zionist history, conference halls, and cultural facilities, serving as a “home” for global engagement.
What Will the Campus of Tomorrow Look Like?
This project is not merely about erecting buildings; it is about setting a new standard for sustainable development in desert environments. The approved master plan mandates a campus that operates at near-zero energy, maximizing solar power generation and storage.
Innovative design choices include a ban on surface-level vehicle traffic, utilizing underground parking to keep the pedestrian experience pristine. The site will feature the southern campus of the Alexander Muss High School in Israel, capable of hosting 10,000 international teenagers annually. Additionally, the village will include pre-army academies (mechinot), centers for post-college internships, and housing for young professionals entering Be’er Sheva’s high-tech and industrial sectors. It is a holistic ecosystem combining residence, education, and advanced environmental labs.
The Search for Visionary Israeli Architects
The JNF-USA has issued a clear challenge to the Israeli architectural community: demonstrate a deep connection to the Zionist vision. The organization is seeking firms that are not only technically proficient but ideologically aligned with the project’s goals.
Candidates must be registered in Israel and possess proven experience with large-scale educational or public campuses. The selection process is rigorous, with 40% of the scoring weighted heavily on the firm’s understanding of the vision and planning context. Other factors include relevant experience (25%), team qualifications (20%), and resources (15%). The top five firms will advance to the final selection round. The chosen architects will work closely with the municipality and project leadership to deliver a facility that meets strict sustainability standards, including LEED certification and BIM methodology.
Development Standards vs. The Zionist Village
| Feature | Standard Educational Campus | The World Zionist Village |
|---|---|---|
| Energy Goals | Standard efficiency compliance | Near-zero energy with max solar utilization |
| Traffic Flow | Surface roads and parking lots | 100% Underground parking; car-free surface |
| Target Audience | Local students and faculty | Global audience: 10,000+ intl. teens, interns, and visitors |
| Design Priority | Functionality and budget | Ideological Vision: 40% of selection weight is “Vision” |
| Tech Integration | Standard construction | BIM Methodology & Climate/Desert Tech showcase |
Essentials for Architectural Contenders
- Demonstrate the Vision: Applicants must prove a genuine connection to the concept of the World Zionist Village and its role in strengthening Jewish identity.
- Showcase Sustainability: Expertise in LEED standards and desert climate technologies is mandatory, not optional.
- Prove Capacity: Firms must display financial stability, BIM capabilities, and a track record of handling large-scale public projects.
Glossary of Terms
- JNF-USA (Jewish National Fund USA): A US-based philanthropic organization distinct from the KKL-JNF, focused on developing Israel’s land and infrastructure, particularly in the Negev and Galilee.
- Dunam: A unit of land area used in Israel, equivalent to 1,000 square meters or approximately 0.25 acres.
- BIM (Building Information Modeling): A digital process for creating and managing information on a construction project across its lifecycle.
- Mechina: A pre-military leadership academy in Israel that prepares high school graduates for IDF service through study and volunteering.
- LEED: The most widely used green building rating system in the world, providing a framework for healthy, highly efficient, and cost-saving green buildings.
Methodology
This report is based on official announcements regarding the “World Zionist Village” project in Be’er Sheva, specifically detailing the call for architectural proposals released in January 2026. Data regarding investment amounts (1.2 billion NIS), timelines (2025-2028), and master plan specifics were sourced directly from the project’s public disclosures and statements by JNF-USA leadership and the Be’er Sheva municipality.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is funding the World Zionist Village?
The project is funded by the Jewish National Fund USA (JNF-USA) through a massive philanthropic campaign supported by Jewish communities and friends of Israel worldwide. It is distinct from Israeli state funding.
When will the village actually open to the public?
The timeline is aggressive but structured. Infrastructure work and coordination are set to begin in 2025. Major construction will take place throughout 2026, with the grand opening projected for 2028.
Why was Be’er Sheva chosen for this international hub?
Be’er Sheva is considered the “Capital of the Negev” and the cradle of Zionist history dating back to Abraham. Mayor Rubik Danilovich and JNF-USA CEO Russell Robinson view the city as the future engine of Israel’s growth, making it the ideal location to connect the Diaspora with Israel’s pioneering spirit.
Is the facility only for students?
No. While it will host the Alexander Muss High School and pre-army academies, it is designed as a community hub. It will include adult education centers, internship programs for young professionals, conference centers, and cultural spaces accessible to the public.
The Future of the Negev Starts Here
The World Zionist Village is more than a collection of buildings; it is a declaration of confidence in the future of the Negev. By demanding the highest standards of environmental innovation and architectural excellence, JNF-USA is ensuring that Be’er Sheva becomes a global beacon for Zionist education. As the search for architects begins, the foundation is being laid for a campus that will shape the identity of the next generation.
Key Takeaways
- Strategic Hub: A 1.2 billion NIS investment to build a global center for Zionist identity in Be’er Sheva.
- Green Landmark: The campus will be a model of zero-energy, car-free urban planning in the desert.
- Architectural Challenge: Top Israeli firms are competing to design the detailed structures, with “vision” being the primary criteria.
- Global Connection: The facility will host 10,000 international students annually, strengthening ties between Israel and the Diaspora.
Why we care:
This story represents a massive vote of confidence in Israel’s south at a time when development and solidarity are crucial. It showcases a modern, forward-thinking Zionism that combines high-tech sustainability with deep historical roots, ensuring that the connection between global Jewry and the State of Israel remains physical, vibrant, and enduring for the next generation.
