About the Impact Center
The mission and purpose of ECHO North America Regional Impact Center (North America RIC) is to equip small-scale farmers, missionaries, and development workers worldwide to combat hunger, malnutrition, and poverty. Here at ECHO North America, individuals are trained with practical and cost-effective ways to reduce hunger through agricultural practices.
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In-Person Training
ECHO offers various study options located at our North America RIC in North Fort Myers, Florida. This year,
we are offering monthly "Growing Together" workshops on Saturdays. If you need a "living
classroom," we also provide a space for outside instructors to use our facilities to host their
trainings here on the farm.
ECHO International Agriculture Conference
Through plenary speakers, breakout sessions, and workshops, we provide opportunities for learning with others
devoted to eradicating hunger and improving lives through agriculture, clean water, and community
development. Speakers share their agricultural challenges and successes, personal experiences, and
transferrable principles for improving the lives of millions facing food insecurity daily. The highlight is
networking with like-minded practitioners, researchers, and educators. Save the date to join us at
our 2026 conference from November 10-12
Join us for two tours that take place at our Impact Center in North Fort Myers, Florida:
ECHO Global Farm Tour
Offered multiple times per week, and by appointment for groups, you'll experience farming at its most creative,
with unique demonstrations, plants, and techniques being used to help farmers and urban gardeners in developing
countries.
ECHO Appropriate Technology Village Tour
Join us on Fridays to discover how simple technologies can improve food, water, and shelter for millions of people.
These technologies include transforming sand into water filters, manure into energy, and bicycles into power tools.
The goal of the ECHO Global Seed Bank
is to serve as a resource for development workers who wish to experiment with underutilized crops as they work to
improve the lives of small scale farmers and gardeners. The seed bank maintains a collection of hard-to-find seeds
that thrive under the often difficult growing conditions of the tropics and sub-tropics.
Internship opportunities equip college graduates with the academic theory and practical skills related to agriculture
and community development. The goal of the program is to prepare those who wish to serve as international
missionaries and development workers. Interns at the North America Impact Center have the opportunity to participate
in field experiences at one of ECHO's other Regional Impact Centers.
