CEO of Zilker Media and author of The Strategic Business Influencer honored for people-first leadership, culture, and client impact.
AUSTIN, Texas — September 19, 2025 — Paige Velasquez Budde, co-founding partner and CEO of Zilker Media, has been named the 2025 Best CEO in the Micro Company category by the Austin Business Journal. Honored at the annual Best CEO Awards in downtown Austin on Sept. 18, Velasquez Budde joins an elite class of leaders recognized for driving organizational success, shaping culture, and making a lasting impact on Central Texas’ business community.
“This award is especially meaningful because it reflects the work and trust of the incredible Zilker Media team,” said Velasquez Budde. “Being a CEO is never a solo achievement. It’s the collective impact of people who show up with courage, curiosity, and commitment every day. I’m grateful to lead alongside such talented individuals who push me to be better.”
Now in its 16th year, the Best CEO Awards spotlight the region’s top executives across industries who exemplify visionary leadership, innovation, and people-first management. Selected by a panel of business leaders and peers, Velasquez Budde was chosen for her role in scaling Zilker Media into a nationally recognized agency while cultivating one of Austin’s strongest workplace cultures.
Since becoming CEO in 2019, Velasquez Budde has led Zilker Media through significant growth, scaling the team, expanding national client impact, and embedding a transparent, trust-centered culture. The agency has earned recognition as one of Austin’s Best Places to Work, a Fastest Growing Company, and a Coolest Company, all while championing leaders and entrepreneurs across industries. Most recently, Velasquez Budde was honored with a Women in Business Award by the Austin Business Journal.
This year was also a standout for the Zilker Media client community, with several leaders earning nominations in the Best CEO Awards, including:
- Adam McGraw, CREW
- Zac Staples, Fathom5
- Jeff Wilkinson, Keystone Bank
- Ellen Wood, vcfo
Paige’s forthcoming book, The Strategic Business Influencer: Building a Brand with a Small Budget, is available for pre-order now. To learn more about Paige and Zilker Media, visit www.zilkermedia.com or connect with Paige on LinkedIn.