About Experience Grand Rapids
Experience Grand Rapids is the official Destination Marketing Organization (DMO) for the area. We are the only community resource devoted to marketing the destination brand by raising visitor awareness of the region’s product – i.e., its appeal as a tourism and convention destination. Our efforts produce millions of dollars in direct and indirect revenues and taxes that uplift the local economy.
The mission of Experience Grand Rapids is to grow an exceptional community by sharing Grand Rapids with the world. What does that really mean? It means that we inspire tourism and conventions through short-term promotions, long-term marketing and sales strategies, and a focus on community developments that will impact the visitor experience.
FAQ
About EXGR:
What type of organization is Experience Grand Rapids?
Experience Grand Rapids is a 501-C6, not-for-profit, private corporation. EXGR is a membership organization with over 300 area businesses investing in marketing and sales initiatives to grow the area’s visitor economy. The organization was founded in 1927.
How is Experience Grand Rapids governed?
Experience Grand Rapids is administered by a volunteer Board of Directors consisting of 25 voting members and 10 non-voting members. Hoteliers comprise the majority of the voting members and the rest are community business leaders. EXGR and its Board of Directors are governed by a set of bylaws, governance policies and executive limitations. The Board is responsible for providing strategic input and guidance, and monitoring finances to ensure progress toward accomplishing goals and objectives.
Where does funding for Experience Grand Rapids come from?
The Experience Grand Rapids budget is derived from a combination of private and public funding sources. Most of its resources come by way of hotel room revenue; a portion of this revenue is paid directly to EXGR by Kent County hotels. The County of Kent, the Gerald R. Ford International Airport and the City of Grand Rapids also provide annual funding through contractual agreements.
How many people work for Experience Grand Rapids?
Experience Grand Rapids employs 35 full-time staff members along with 18 part-timers and college interns. Full-time team members work in either meeting sales and services, marketing or administrative positions. Part-time staffers provide visitor services at Gerald R. Ford International Airport. You can meet the team.
How can I stay informed on the efforts of Experience Grand Rapids?
Experience Grand Rapids is fortunate to enjoy the support of a community that understands and appreciates the value of business and leisure travel to the area. In return, we strive to keep community members informed on what we are doing and how our efforts impact the local economy and quality of life.Stay informed about Experience Grand Rapids, sign up for our quarterly newsletter, Friends of Experience GR newsletter.
