As conference planners seek more sustainable options, the Fort Myers area is carving a thoughtful space in the conference landscape where landscape beauty fits purpose-driven plans. With over 290,000 square feet of meeting space and 12,500 hotel rooms, Fort Myers Island, beaches and the community provide planners with everything they need to design meaningful events.
Getting there is easy and seamless access can be accessed through Southwest Florida International Airport (RSW) and local transportation options to accommodate groups of any size. The off-site venues in the area (in the background of the bay) add something special. Not to mention that local professional event planners can help your event without any obstacles.
But what really sets the larger Fort Myers area apart is not just logistics – it’s the atmosphere. Known for its calm pace, restorative natural surroundings and iconic white sand beaches, this is where attendees can truly relax, connect and charge.
As travelers are increasingly paying attention to their environmental impacts, Fort Myers and surrounding communities also provide planners with something increasingly important: various environmentally friendly venues and hands-on community programs that invite attendees to participate.
Call and green
Fort Myers local officials and organizations have worked for decades to protect and protect the unique environment of the region. This commitment evolves every year – and it’s part of what meeting planners can participate.
“Many planners are looking for opportunities to give back to the community to meet, achieve their sustainability goals, and foster lasting attendee connections,” said Jill Vance, sales director for Fort Myers, Beach and Community Destination Sales Organization. “We have a lot of options to check all three boxes.”
Popular Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) activities include beach cleaning, oyster bed restoration and mangrove planting – hands-on group experiences that support local ecosystems while encouraging teamwork. Recently, a conglomerate planted 1,800 oats on the beach to prevent future flooding. Sea oats naturally build sand dunes, resulting in lasting environmental benefits. Many participants return in the future to understand the lasting impact on themselves.
These hands-on efforts can help companies improve their brand reputation and resonate with sustainability sponsors and attendees. They also allow the team to connect with the natural beauty that defines the Fort Myers area, from the mangroves in Sanibel to the turquoise waters of the bay.
The county’s commitment
Sustainable development efforts in the region go far beyond team building opportunities. Fort Myers and surrounding areas have over 120,000 acres of conservative land, including two-thirds of Sanibel Island, which are still protected as protected land.
At JN “Ding” Dear National Wildlife Refuge, groups can find up to 245 species of birds, crocodiles, manatees and bottleneck dolphins. The mentored tram rides and mindful walking along with local naturalists also provide memorable ways to immerse attendees in nature.
The county’s Conservation 20/20 program, an environmental land acquisition and management program, has protected 31,000 acres of land in 170 properties, including 52 nature reserves. The county continues to invest in new conservation opportunities to ensure that both residents and visitors can use these green spaces.
Through a destination collaboration with friendly travelers, an initiative called “Give back every stay” can be easily made available to planners and organizations as part of the event. The turnkey program supports one of four local charities: a clinic for wildlife recovery, keeping Lee County beautiful, coastal observation and clean water captains. Whether it’s a planning leadership retreat or offsite at the company-wide level, every feedback can make a meaningful impact.
Where to educate and participate
Perhaps the best example of sustainability, innovation and community coming together is BEC at Fort Myers EFC Farm. The working farm and event venue stems from resilience after Hurricane Ian, and recently celebrates the grand opening of its new Education and Event Center: a specially built space that integrates education, sustainability and community engagement.
The BEC provides a clear local alternative to traditional conference venues, namely equal experience and education. Groups can participate in hands-on workshops, aquaculture farm tours and sustainable agriculture programs. Its zero waste model and hydroponics technology are up to 90% less water than traditional agriculture, which shows how innovation and sustainability go hand in hand.
BEC promotes creativity and connection in the tranquility of corporate retreats and gatherings. Customized food and beverage packages, curated by exclusive catering partners, with fresh local ingredients for sustainable development.
“The attendees want more than just a change in the scenery,” Vance said. “They want to walk away with a sense of purpose. This is exactly the place BEC has to offer.”
Key products include:
- Company retreats and parties: A space designed to promote creativity, collaboration and connection.
- Sustainability and education: Hands-on workshops, farm travel and programs focus on sustainable agriculture.
- Zero waste commitment: Dedicated to minimize environmental impact through innovative hydroponics and hydroponics systems, which are 90% less than traditional agriculture.
- Featured Food and Beverage Packages: Dedicated through exclusive catering partners, focusing on sustainability.
- Community Engagement: The interactive sustainability program invites businesses and local groups to participate.
From conservation-driven sites to immersive CSR activities, Fort Myers’ islands, beaches and communities provide planners with purposeful ways to connect, ignite inspiration and leave lasting impact.
For teams looking to slow down, interact with purpose and meet in an environment that reflects their values, Fort Myers and the surrounding area provide a new perspective and breathe fresh air.
More information on hosting events and submitting RFPs in the Fort Myers area, Click here.
The content was created in collaboration with Fort Myers – Island, Beach and Community and Skiftx, Skift’s branded content studio.
