Kris Kiser Honored with Louisville Tourism Impact Award at Derby Festival Kickoff

Kris Kiser Receives First Ever Louisville Tourism Impact Award

At the recent official launch event for the 2025 Kentucky Derby Festival, Kris Kiser—who holds the positions of President and CEO at Equip Exposition, the Outdoor Power Equipment Institute (OPEI), and the TurfMutt Foundation—was distinguished with the first-ever Louisville Tourism Impact Award. This accolade acknowledges Kiser's exceptional dedication to enhancing the city of Louisville.

During the ceremony, Kiser remarked, "It’s a true honor to be the first recipient of this award. Louisville is now home for me, and I’m proud to be part of its continued momentum as one of the country’s most vibrant cities." Kiser's connection to Louisville runs deep; he is a local native and an alumnus of the University of Louisville School of Law. In 2022, he transitioned from Washington D.C. to Louisville and took the reins of Equip Exposition, moving its headquarters to downtown—a strategic decision aimed at solidifying the partnership between the city and the organization he leads.

Equip Exposition stands as one of the largest trade shows nationwide, taking place every October in Louisville and serving as a significant economic catalyst with an annual impact exceeding $30 million. Under Kiser's leadership, the event has experienced record attendance in recent years, with figures reaching 25,000 attendees in 2022, increasing to 27,000 in 2023, and further growing to 28,500 in 2024. Kiser expressed that his team is always brainstorming new avenues to promote the city.

Among these efforts is a recent generous contribution of $1 million from the TurfMutt Foundation toward improvements in Waterfront Park, which has now given rise to the TurfMutt Great Lawn. This Foundation has been a longtime advocate for green spaces and outdoor learning initiatives, celebrating over 15 years of service to the community. Additionally, both the TurfMutt Foundation and OPEI have established offices in Louisville to enhance their local presence.

Kiser’s commitment to community service is further exemplified by his recognition from the Kentucky Humane Society (KHS) last year, which honored him with the 2024 Excellence in Philanthropy Humane Hero Award due to his ongoing support for animal rescue initiatives. His civic involvement extends to serving on the Waterfront Development Corporation Board of Directors and the Kentucky Venues Advisory Board, showcasing his deep-rooted dedication to the city.

The awards luncheon, attended by over a thousand community members and supporters, took place at The Galt House Hotel’s Grand Ballroom, marking the commencement of the Derby season. Kiser’s contributions to the city and its communities reflect a genuine passion for development and growth, promising a bright future for Louisville.

Conclusion

Kris Kiser’s recognition with the Louisville Tourism Impact Award illustrates not only his impactful work within the local tourism sector but also highlights his unwavering commitment to the city that he proudly calls home.