Verdantas Tops Zweig Group’s 2025 Hot Firm List – Celebrating the Fastest-Growing AEC Innovators

The AEC industry is abuzz with the release of the 2025 Hot Firm List by the Zweig Group, a highly anticipated annual ranking that spotlights the 100 fastest-growing architecture, engineering, planning, and environmental consulting firms across the United States and Canada.

This year’s list, officially announced on May 28, 2025, celebrates companies that have achieved outstanding financial performance and consistent year-over-year growth, making waves in a highly competitive market landscape.

🏆 Verdantas Secures the Top Spot

Leading the 2025 list is Verdantas, claiming the No. 1 position for the first time. Verdantas has shown remarkable growth through a combination of strategic acquisitions, sustainability-focused solutions, and integrated digital services in environmental and infrastructure consulting.

With a multi-disciplinary team and an expanding national footprint, Verdantas has become a frontrunner in using data-driven design, BIM integration, and climate-resilient engineering practices, cementing its role as a transformative force in the AEC industry.

Certerra and Salas O’Brien Follow Close Behind

• Certerra, a dynamic firm known for its innovation in urban planning and smart city solutions, secured second place. Their consistent emphasis on technology-first approaches and community-driven design continues to yield significant growth and impact.
• Salas O’Brien, a long-time industry leader in engineering and commissioning services, rounded out the top three. Their expansion across North America and commitment to client-focused project delivery have earned them sustained recognition and accolades.

🔍 About the Rankings

The Hot Firm List ranks companies based on a blended score of both dollar revenue growth and percentage growth over a three-year evaluation period. It reflects the resilience, innovation, and forward-thinking strategies that drive success in the ever-evolving AEC landscape.

💡 Why It Matters

These firms are not only growing in size but are also shaping the future of the built environment through:

• Cutting-edge BIM adoption
• Emphasis on sustainability and green infrastructure
• Leveraging AI, data analytics, and automation in design and construction

📢 Want to explore more about BIM-driven growth stories? Stay tuned to the BIM Cafe News section for industry news, project spotlights, and professional insights.