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Miami, FL, April 22, 2025 – Qwoted Newswire –Avenue Z, the fast-scaling marketing and communications agency redefining how brands earn influence, has been named the recipient of the 2025 H. Wayne Huizenga Startup of the Year Award at the South Florida Business Journal’s Business of the Year Awards.
The recognition honors Avenue Z’s rapid national growth, industry innovation, and cultural impact in its first two years. Founded by digital marketing veteran Jeffrey Herzog, Avenue Z brings strategic communications, digital marketing, and performance media together under one roof – helping brands and businesses grow faster and stand out in a world increasingly shaped by AI.
“We’re not just building a company, we’re building a movement,” said Herzog, Founder, Chairman & CEO of Avenue Z, during his acceptance remarks. “This award means a lot because Wayne Huizenga’s story reflects our own core values: passion, integrity, and impact.”
The H. Wayne Huizenga Startup Award honors early-stage companies that exhibit strong financial performance, bold vision, and a commitment to lasting impact. The award is named for Wayne Huizenga – the legendary South Florida entrepreneur who built three Fortune 500 companies from scratch, including Waste Management, AutoNation, and owned/co-owned the Miami Dolphins, Florida Panthers, and other teams.
“Wayne didn’t just build companies – he built movements,” Herzog said. “He drove trucks himself. He worked 80-hour weeks. He earned every win and gave back without needing the spotlight. That legacy of relentless execution is one we aspire to every day at Avenue Z.”
Founded in 2023, Avenue Z has already expanded into multiple U.S. markets, scaled its team to 100+ full-time employees, launched a creators studio, and expanded its Miami presence fivefold. Earlier this year, the company launched a first-to-market AI Optimization Solution designed to help brands navigate and lead in the new era of AI-powered search and discovery.
“We’ve been here before,” said Herzog, referencing his early days launching iCrossing in 1998, one of the first search marketing firms. “I see that same opportunity again – only now, it’s AI, strategic communications, and cultural influence that are reshaping the game.”
The 2025 Business of the Year Awards were held April 17, 2025, at Gulfstream Park’s Sport of Kings Theater in Hallandale Beach. Avenue Z was honored alongside top-performing companies and leaders across South Florida, including Benjamin Leon, Jr. (Lifetime Achievement), Ortega Construction, H&CO, and The Education Fund.
“To Miami and South Florida – you are our launchpad,” Herzog concluded. “Your energy is unmatched, and your belief in bold ideas makes this moment possible. We’re honored. We’re grateful. And we’re just getting started.”
For more information, visit AvenueZ.com or DrivingInfluence.com.
About Avenue Z
Avenue Z is the leading marketing and communications agency pioneering AI optimization, driving influence across all channels – from ChatGPT to The Wall Street Journal to TikTok. With 30 years of leadership in search and digital marketing, we apply strategic communications, high-impact PR, performance media, and AI optimization to help companies build reputation and grow revenue through our proprietary, technology-driven approach. We are the agency for influence. Visit AvenueZ.com or DrivingInfluence.com.
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Full Name: Rachael Zahn
Title: SVP, Strategic Marketing
Company Name: Avenue Z
Email: [email protected]
Website: https://www.avenuez.com/
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