In 1995 the head of the ICRC training unit suggested to the directorate that a place be found in which to centralize the organization's training activities, which until then had been held in various spots around Geneva. Having heard of Ecogia, he contacted the Versoix authorities and it quickly became apparent that there was a common interest.

The ICRC Assembly gave its approval to the project provided that the funds needed to restore and equip the centre were raised separately from those intended for field operations.

Today, thanks to a strong team effort, the training centre has become a reality. It was inaugurated on 10 May 2001 and will belong to the ICRC for 50 years before reverting to the municipality of Versoix.

The cost of renovating the building came to 9.8 million Swiss francs. A 50-year interest-free loan for this amount was obtained from the Swiss Confederation through FIPOI (Building Foundation for International Organizations). Funds to cover the cost of facilities and equipment, totalling approximately 2 million Swiss francs, were provided by sponsors and private donors.