About this Nominee
Kim Guess is a visionary entrepreneur, community leader, and economic catalyst whose innovative approach to entertainment, hospitality, and event management has transformed Southwest Michigan’s cultural landscape. As the Founder and CEO of The Xperience Events Management Group and Guess Who’s Dancing Fitness, Kim has built businesses that not only generate revenue but also create opportunities, strengthen communities, and celebrate diversity.
Under her leadership, The Xperience has grown into one of the region’s premier event management and entertainment organizations, producing everything from corporate events and weddings to large-scale festivals, concerts, fitness experiences, and community celebrations. Through strategic partnerships, innovative programming, and an unwavering commitment to excellence, Kim has helped generate more than $1.5 million in business revenue while creating opportunities for countless local entrepreneurs, artists, entertainers, and small businesses. (EY)
Kim’s entrepreneurial journey is defined by resilience and purpose. She transformed personal adversity into a mission of creating spaces where people from every background can connect through culture, music, wellness, and unforgettable experiences. Her business philosophy extends beyond profitability—she believes entrepreneurship should create lasting economic impact by supporting local vendors, developing strategic partnerships, mentoring future business leaders, and investing back into the community.
Known for her ability to identify opportunities where others see obstacles, Kim has successfully launched signature events, managed multiple venues, secured corporate sponsorships, and positioned her companies as trusted leaders in the entertainment and hospitality industry. Her leadership reflects the qualities of today’s most impactful entrepreneurs: vision, innovation, adaptability, courage, and an unwavering commitment to making a difference. (EY)
Kim Guess exemplifies what it means to be an Entrepreneur of the Year—not simply because of the businesses she has built, but because of the lives she has impacted, the opportunities she has created, and the legacy she continues to build. Through bold leadership and a relentless commitment to excellence, she is proving that entrepreneurship can be both a powerful business strategy and a force for meaningful community transformation.