Centro Cultural Nicaragüense Norteamericano (CCNN), founded in 1942 under the name of Instituto Americano de Inglés, is a non-profit organization whose purpose is to promote mutual understanding and respect between citizens of Nicaragua and the United States through the teaching of both languages, English and Spanish, as well as the implementation of cultural events. The CCNN has had a long history within Nicaragua and now has the third generation of Nicaraguans learning English.

In addition to learning English, the center provides the following free services: educational advising (Education USA) that allows Nicaraguans to pursue scholarship opportunities to study in the USA, the “Emily Dickinson” library with an extensive collection of ESL materials for teachers and students, a computer laboratory with 20 computers for enhanced language learning online, wi-fi (free internet connection), cultural activities including dance, speakers, movies, art and other events.

Because of the earthquake that devastated Managua in 1972, CCNN had to close operations for about 20 years. It was not until 1993 that CCNN opened its doors again with the new name Centro Cultural Nicaragüense Norteamericano. In an attempt to be more centrally located in Managua, CCNN has recently moved to Reparto Los Robles, and has a branch in the city of Estelí.