New York City Mayor Michael Bloomberg. Photo: Daily News.

JNS.org – Former New York City mayor Michael Bloomberg’s foundation chose Jerusalem and Tel Aviv-Yafo as the only two non-American cities among a group of 14 that will be part of the $45 million expansion of the Innovation Teams program, which “aims to improve the capacity of City Halls to effectively design and implement new approaches that improve citizens’ lives.”

The program, often called “i-teams,” relies “on data, open innovation, and strong project and performance management to help mayors address pressing urban challenges,” Bloomberg Philanthropies said. For up to three years, Jerusalem will receive $850,000 per year to focus on poverty and economic development, and Tel Aviv will be awarded $650,000 annually to work on the issues of cost of living and illegal immigration.

“This grant is an investment in the future of the city of Jerusalem, as well as recognition that Jerusalem is a hub for innovation,” Jerusalem Mayor Nir Barkat said.

“More and more city governments around the world are eager to innovate, so we’re excited to expand the program beyond U.S. borders by bringing i-teams to Jerusalem and Tel Aviv-Yafo,” Michael Bloomberg said.