Explore practical approaches to community seed banking, quality seed management, and farmer seed access while connecting with practitioners from across Asia.

Event description:
ECHO Asia is pleased to host the 3rd Biennial Community Seed Bank Forum at the ECHO Asia Impact Center and Seed Bank in Chiang Mai, Thailand.

This interactive event will bring together community seed bank managers, seed system practitioners, and agricultural development professionals working across Asia. Whether you are experienced or just getting started, the forum offers an opportunity to learn from peers, build valuable connections, and exchange practical ideas for strengthening community-based seed conservation and distribution.

Together, we will explore:

• The unique role and value of Community Seed Banks in strengthening local food systems

• Best practices for producing, maintaining, and distributing quality seed

• Practical approaches to establishing and managing low-cost, context-appropriate seed banks

• Effective strategies for engaging communities and increasing farmers’ access to seed

Participants will gain hands-on exposure to technologies and methods appropriate for small- and medium-scale seed banks in the tropics, including seed processing, storage systems, and inventory management. The forum will also provide opportunities for peer learning and knowledge exchange on topics such as genetic conservation, seed banking models, and the challenges and opportunities facing community seed systems today.

Whether you are actively managing a seed bank or exploring how to start one, this forum offers valuable insights, practical tools, and connections with fellow practitioners from across the region.

Learning objectives:

• Explore the unique role and value of Community Seed Banks in strengthening local food systems

• Learn best practices for producing, maintaining, and distributing quality seed

• Investigate practical approaches to establishing and managing low-cost, context-appropriate seed banks

• Discuss and evaluate effective strategies for engaging communities and increasing farmers’ access to seed

Registration fee:

• 4,000 baht – Forum only*

• 8,500-13,500 baht Forum + accommodation package** (price varies by room type)

*Includes training materials, lunches, coffee breaks, and site visit transportation.

**Includes training materials, coffee breaks, site visit transportation, accommodation, and meal package.

Travel costs are the responsibility of participants.

Closing date registration: 14 September 2026