Entrepreneur of the Year Nominee

William Kilburg

Chairman and CEO, Hospitality Performance Network
Scottsdale - AZ US

Bill Kilburg has a long history of entrepreneurship and involvement in the hotel and management industry. His hospitality career began at an early age as a bellman. He learned the ropes and quickly worked his way up the corporate ladder to chief financial officer of a resort ownership and management firm.

Today, he’s co-founder of Hospitality Performance Network (HPN), the fastest growing site selection and meeting procurement company in the United States. Since opening in 2002, they have grown by over 227 percent and expanded from two full time employees to a network of 80 sales associates.

Thanks to Bill’s leadership and entrepreneurial spirit, HPN has developed a unique business model that features a centralized purchasing unit. The model provides significant benefits to both clients and sales associates. It streamline efforts and allows HPN to leverage rates and contract terms for clients, while alleviating administrative work for sales associates.

In 2007, HPN anticipates placing $90 million in booked room revenue. That equates to about 2,500 meetings planned throughout the country for companies such as Avnet, Diageo, Wells Fargo, Stryker, Honeywell, Dunn & Bradstreet.

Bill’s vision to create a customized and comprehensive approach to site selection, contract negotiation, destination management, recreation, transportation, offsite catering, on-line registration and production has proven to be wildly successful.

Comments

unbelievable growth and vision by Bill
Stephen Schwan - PHX,AZ

Bill's get it done approach is outstanding! He solves tough problems effectively.
Tony Wall - Scottsdale, Arizona

Great accomplishment
Franco Antonetti - Horseshoe Bend,AR

Fast growing company based on Bill's expertise and knowledge learned while working inside the hotel business.
Julie Reigle - Scottsdale, AZ

This guy is a rockstar.
D3 - Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic

What incredible growth in short amount of time. A true entreprenuer!
Lindsay - Scottsdale

Brillant idea and excellent business model.
Rick - Denver

My company has used HPN for many events and meetings around the country and they wouldn't have been the success they were if not for the company's professional touch. In my opinion, Bill and his crew are the leader in this industry and everyone else is miles behind... It's not even close.
Tim - Phoenix, AZ

His work ethic, managerial style and growth statistics reinforce the belief that determination and vision can create success in 2007. He is a great role model for others who aspire to establish their own "place" in the business world.
Dee - Houston, TX

227% growth and the addition of 78 jobs in the last 5 years. Extraordinary!!
B. Brittain -

Incredible leader, incredible success story!
Adam R. Mays - Scottsdale, Arizona

Bill and HPN are outstanding!
Patrick Barkley - Scottsdale, Az

Right on!
Mark - Boston, MA

That's our boy...Bill simply perceives no obstacles in attaining his goals, and he never stops learning. He's a guy of incredible energy and optimism, and loves to work in a relaxed atmosphere surrounded by similarly entrepreneurially minded achievers.
Miles Eggimann - Scottsdale, AZ

Bill's insight into the meeting procurement and site selection industry is second to none! He is, without question, the most dynamic and innovative person in this business.
Lynda Staples - Baxter, Minnesota

Bill Kilburg is a great leader and is an excellent candidate for Entrepreneur of the Year! My vote is definitely with him!
Lisa Robinson - Tempe, Arizona

Bill is the reason that I signed on with HPN as a Sales Executive.
Dena Manley - Crete, IL

Bill is a great entreprenuer and a fine person to work for.
Rosanne Fassbinder - Belle Fourche, SD

I couldn't agree more! Not only does he know how to run a great business, he knows how to have a great balance between work, fun, and family. That's rare these days.
- Phoenix, AZ

Bill, along with his partner, take excellent care of their employees and truly lead by example. They value the dedication and loyalty of their staff and are not afraid to express their appreciation.
John Whitney - Tempe, Arizona

Interesting story of someone "rising through the ranks," using knowledge gained along the way to fuel his entrepreneurial spirit. HPN seems to be have a profitable business model and meet a significant market need.
Larry Cox - Muncie, IN

Having had the opportunity to work with Bill for several years before this official recognition I would like to state that he had formed the requirements how to be successful and run a successful business long before this recognition. Bill has always been blessed with an astute mind and the ability to work hard but I think the thing that I most admired about him is his ability to recognize his values and live his life in alignment with these values. if anyone who reads this file and knows Bills wife Karen they will know why they are such a dynamic duo. Karen is a success story on her own but the combination of the two Kilberg’s is quite awesome and they have completed and I predict will continue to complete some very important milestones in their careers. Congratulations Bill, I look forward to witnessing many more of your accomplishements in the future. Peter H Thomas Founder Century 21 Real Estate Canada
Peter Thomas - Scottsdale, AZ

Everything Mr. Kilbug touches, turns to gold. He has superior drive, and a keen vision, and is an extraordinary businessman, and leader.
Terry O'Brien - South Barrington, IL

Unbelievable growth in an extremely competitive business. Great job
Paul Knollmeyer - New York, NY

Congratulations to Bill and his team for providing such a valuable service to corporations and meeting planners. They make the entire process simple and streamlined.
Allison - Scottsdale, Az

HPN, lead by Bill, is a quick growth, fast paced, eye on the ball company, easy to work with, knows their stuff, finds and develops talent with a killer reputation in the hotel busines..... WAY TO GO!!!
Mandi - San Diego, CA

What a remarkable story of turning an idea into a successful business model.
John - Brockton MA

Dynamic, driven and unbelievably intelligent, Bill is the perfect candidate for this recognition. Well done!
Marsha - Chandler, AZ

Bill is the Best of the Best!
Eileen Higginbotham - Palatine, IL

Bill puts his money where his mouth is. This company is the best there is out there!
Kim Johnson - Chicago, IL

I love Bill's leadership skills. Along with his team, they've brought this company to the forefront in site selection.
Meredith - Alexandria, VA

I've just begun to work with this company, and know why tehy are the best there is...because Bill and his team. Thanks for helping change the industry.
Kevin - Minneapolis, MN

Very impressed with Bill--HPN's approach -and the team they have assembled.It speaks volumes about the vision of their leader--Bill It's an honor to submit this on Bill's behalf
Bill Grusich,CMP - Chicago,ill

I've just begun to work with this company, and know why tehy are the best there is...because Bill and his team. Thanks for helping change the industry.
Kevin - Minneapolis, MN

I love this company - they are so easy to work with...This stems from the Top! Bill is terrific.
Patt - Arlington Heights, IL

A winner!
-

He sounds like someone who has earned and deserved his successes.
Chrissie Mena - Barrington, IL

Our support from Cancun, Mexico. HPN is one of the best great companies we had ever worked
Monica Fortuna - Westin Resort & Spa Cancun

Truly extraordinary, in every way! Way to go Bill!
Shannon McGurn - Cary, IL

I've been in the hospitality for years - thank goodness someone had the sense to develop an organization that worked with the hotels, as opposed to against them. On behalf of all hotels , we thank you Bill!
Kevin Edwards - Rosemont, IL

Outstanding!
Jane - Inverness, IL

Congrats. The fun train has left the building!
Margie - Chicago, Ill

He deserves a 10
Michelle Casilli - Santa Cruz, CA

I so enjoy working with HPN! It obviously trickles dwon from their leader. Congratulations!
Courtney Barton - Fayetteville, AR 72704

Bill's focus and drive are remarkable! He has provided his team with tools to be industry leaders. My vote is for Bill!
Jeff - San Diego, CA

Bill Kilburg is an industry visionary, great team leader and outstanding businessman!
Nancy Olson - Burr Ridge, IL

He is the MOST amazing hospitality industry leader. We should be reading more about him in our industry trade magazines. We need more individuals like you to read about. I'm inspired by you and your company!!!
Kathy Kozminske - Chicago, IL

I have worked with Bill for the past year and find his industry knowledge extraodinary and has the key business relationships to get the job done. A truly worthy candidate
Jim riggs - scottsdale, AZ

He is an industry leader who has reached the pinnacle through sound business practices and ethical behavior.
David Barnett - Scottsdale, Arizona

He's one of the best examples of an entrepreneur and deserves the honor.
Edina Lessack, CMP - Chicago, IL

Well deserved nomination.
CBW - Schaumburg, IL

Hard work and dedication sometimes goes unnoticed. Congrats on the nomination.
T. Suspenzi - Barrington, IL

Congratulations. It's always a pleasure working with Bill and the HPN team.
Ryan Matheson - Vancouver, BC

Bill is an ambassador to the meeting world and a classy guy to boot! The success and productivity that HPN has accomplished has been attributed to Bill's vision and determination to succeed. It is unfortunate that more meeting planning companies do not take the same approach. Keep up the great work!
Jonathan - Phoenix, AZ

A great visionary leader. Kathy Miller, Total Event Resources
Kathy Miller - Hoffman Estates, IL

Congratulations Bill on a success that you so richly deserve! You have shown me through your example how to be passionate about what we do, how to create our own success and still have time left each day to enjoy the things that matter most.
Jil Dasher - Iowa City, IA

Bill is more than an Entrepreneur, he collects entrepreneurs! His entire team is cutting edge and dedicated to the success of HPN, all the while Bill is dedicated to their individual accomplishments. Good luck with this well deserved nomination.
ET - New Orleans, LA

Bill lives fully in the moment which makes him very effective in everything he does - he inspires me to make it happen, in my life and my business. Amazingly he is in balance and on a highwire spinning many plates. I look forward to learning from him!
Meredtih Galvan - Spokane, WA

Bill has that bulldog mentality. He never gives up especially when the chips are down. Bill also maintains a truly unique positive approach to business. When asked about business, the standard answer is "fantastic." Bill is a true entrepreneur.
David West - San Antonio, TX

Looks as if he found a niche with alot of potential. Nice job Bill!
Victoria Stolarski - Westlake, LA

Way to go!!
Joseph Kempa - Orlando, FL

He is a great leader and motivator... we have all come along way beacuse of his hard work and positive attitude. Thanks Bill
Pam - TX

Bills is a great person to partership with!
Madaly Tun - Cancun, Mexico

Congratulation!!! Bill is a friendly and approachable person that allows both business associates and clients to work with him comfortably. It is the key to his success as he continued to acknowledge and assist those who make him what he is today. Bill also knows that the key to his success is to surround himself with great people and taking care of them. Taking care of those who assist you in obtaining your goals or dreams is the recipe to a successful business. Bill is a true entrepreneur.
Fa'a Tialino - Lahaina, Hawaii

Bill is a serial entrepreneur and a worthy recipient of "Inc Entrepreneur of the Year" award. He has my vote and that goes back many years when Paychex was in its infancy and in a similar position. The competition is stiff but Bill is more than equal to the challenge. Frank Flack, Scottsdale, AZ.
Frank Flack - Scottsdale, Arizona

Bill has put together a solid team of professionals and is a great leader who represents the future of business.
Emily Kresser - Boca Raton, Florida

Bill Kilburg is a true visionary. He epitomizes the entreprenuer spirit and is exceptionally deserving of this award.
Carolyn Johnsen, Esq. - Phoenix, Arizona

In a nutshell, Bill gets it! Not only does he get it, his staff is extraordinary and they all are so on top of their game! That shows his quest in seeking out excellence! A true pleasure to work with an organization with leadership style that embraces the big picture and exemplifies true class!
Karen - Long Beach, CA

A perfect 10!!! Each of Bill's associates are first class and I enjoy working with them everyday!
Meridith Gee - San Diego, CA

Bill has inspired many with his approach to the site selection business within the meeting planning and hotel industry. Always a pleasure to work with and a true motivator, he is very deserving of this nomination and award!
Paul Perrino - Orlando, FL

Go Bill!
Annette Beyer - Palm Harbor, FL

Good idea but not good enough to get an award.
Shahab Fatheazam - Chicago,Il

Thrilled to work with your premier organization
Gaetan Mousseau - Los Angeles, CA

Bill is truly the best of the best. There is no one else like him out there. Congratulations on a well-deserved nomination.
Amelia - FL

Bill is a true entreprenuer...in every sense. I've just worked with this company, and it was an outstanding experience. Success stems from the top. Congratulations!
Tom Zabkiewicz - South Barrington, IL

Great concept. Great company. Great leader. Great entrepreneur.
Al Harris - Chicago, IL

Wow. So deserving. Great to see this.
Leon Mulder - Toronto, Ontario, Canada

What a great concept. Worth of this award.
Meredith Patrick - Chicago, IL

I have had the extreme pleasure of working with this company, and found it a efficient and money-saving experience. This man knows how to run a company
Michele Markowicz - Lake Geneva, WI

At a major tradeshow in Chicago, there was lots of great industry buzz about this organization...I believe the peole have spoken.
Robin Nagle - Chicago, IL

What an awesome accompishment and well deserved. HPN simply ROCKS!
Jamie Cox - Orlando, FL

There is absolutely no one else like this man...no one can equal his vision, leadership, and enthusiasm. Love him and his company. Rock on Bill!
Elizabeth Kownick - Chicago, IL

I've been recently introduced to this organization. They helped me save thousands of dollars, and mademy organization look great. Thank you to Bill and his company.
Mary Beth Nowak - Chicago, IL

Well, may I say, they put their $$$ where their mouth is! After a savings of in excess of $60,000, the value of this company proves itself tenfold. Congratulations Bill and conratulations on hiring an exceptional team. Success stems from the top!
Nancy Olson - Burr Ridge, IL

Just what the industry ordered. This man deserves this award!
Dolores Siok - South Barrington, IL

Now I know what all this buzz is about. Give this man the award!
Dave S. - Chicago, IL

Bill and his company are Simply The Best! Congratulations to Bill and HPN! Best of the Best.
Luke - Buffalo Grove, IL

There is absolutely No One else like him in this industry. In an "all about me and money" industry, Bill strives to make the customer happy, keep the hotels happy, and keep his employees happy. Ironically enough, this is rare in the hospitality industry. Bill Kilburg, you wholeheartedly deserve this award!
Mark Sullivan - Chicago, IL

Rock On!
Mark - Boston, MA

Sign me up! I love and admire what this company is able to accomplish... and hiring the best of the best. You must be doing something really, really, right. I've heard nothing but rave reviews about you...from people who matter, and are the best of of best. What they say matters... and You are the real deal. Congratulations!
Noelene Wilson - Naperville, IL

I've never met a more positive, intelligent, honest man in my life. he actually cares more about people, than he does his own success. Rare...very rare, these days. Bill, keep up the good work...and keep making your team happy!
Karen Gergren - Chicago, IL

Extraordinary doesn't even begin to cover it. I've never met anyone like him...and his team raves about him. How can he Not win this? Way to go Bill!
Bob D. - Chicago , IL

In a billion dollar industry... this man is changing the way of the future. How can you not love that? He makes everyone happy... hotels, staff, and clients. His employees think the world of him, as do I! Love him!
Peggy Murray - Chicago, IL

Bill is an entrepreneur in every sense of the word. He deserves this... A really great man.
Carolyn McLaughlin - Arlington Heights, IL

From what I've heard and read, he is revolutionizing the hotel industry. I dig this concept!
Kristy Maczko - Prospect Heights, IL

As smart as a whip... and treats his employees like gold...realizing you're only as good as your team. Who else onthis list can you say that about? Bill Kilburg is the deserved winner.
Donna Blain - Palatine, IL

Bill is Good enough... and is Good enough to win this award!
Steve Jensen - Chicago, IL

I had to comment... from what I keep hearing about this man, there must be No One else worthy of this award. Looking forward to hearing more of his successes. Keep up the great work!
Shari Lococo - Mundelein, IL

This is the best site selection company out there... bar none... The reason is Mr. Kilburg. Best man out there... and really cares about his people, and the industry.
Sheila Cunniff - Chicago, IL

I'm sold... I've been using you for 45 days, and you are so worth it. Love your company, love your staff... You are terrific.
Cathy Friedman - Boston, MA

He is the real deal! People love him for a reason. Thanks Bill, for helping the industry.
Donna Penyak - South Barrington, IL

He helps us look great! what are you going to do next, Bill?
Art Space Creative - St. Louis

Congratulations Bill. We look forward to hearing about what else you have in store for the future! You are a true entrepreneur...in every sense of the word. Rare these days.
Harold - Huntley, IL

Congratulations to Bill and his team. I've heard magnificent things about this organization. I've always been a true believe that this attitude stems from the top down! Looking forward to meeting you Bill. I admire your accomplishments.
Wilma Growney - Chicago, IL

Great Leader. Congratulations Bill to you and Your dynamic team!
Donna Collins - Chicago, IL

What a remarkable man and organization. We are so lucky to be able to work with them. Thank you Bill.
Jasmine Caban - Chicago, IL

There is Nothing this man can't do. Can't is not in his language. Congratulations on this extraordinary nomination... and a well-deserved win! Way to go Bill!
Rhonda Chesney - Chicago, IL

Bill's HPN is among the top 10 best run companies I have ever dealt with.
Jim Alfaro - Manhattan Beach, CA

There is no better in this industry
Dan D. - St. Louis, MO

Congratulations on a well deserved nomination.
Steve Monroe - St. Louis

I love the buss I hear about this company. Keep up the good work.
Jim H. - St. Louis Park, MO

Truly Extraordinary
Tina Khurana - Barrington,IL

I've just had the chance to work with this great company. So far, it's been great. I have heard, great things about this company, and Mr. Kilburg.
Susan Katz - Chicago,IL

Way to go! Keep up the great work and continue to improve our industry.
Lisa Sykes - Chicago, IL

Outstanding idea. This is an organization we will begin to use. The concept makes great sense, and as a company, we're looking forward to reaping the benefits. I've heard great things about this man. Congrtulations.
Colleen Zambole - Riverwoods, IL

I haven't had this much fun working with a company in 20 years! Bill Kilburg is a brilliant businessman and entrepreneur!
Caroline Fawcett - Aurora, IL

Bill and HPN are wonderful. Congratulations on the very well deserved nomination. You Rock!
Donna Burlon - Memphis, TN

Bill has great vision....I can not wait to see what HPN will accomplish in the next five years...go BK
Steve - Scottsdale

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