Kansas City, MO – April 24, 2026 – Khanect the Dots LLC today announced it has been named the winner of a Bronze Stevie® Award in the Women in AI Leadership category in the 24th Annual American Business Awards®.
The American Business Awards are the premier business awards program in the United States, recognizing organizations and professionals driving innovation, growth, and impact across industries. More than 3,600 nominations from organizations of all sizes were submitted this year for consideration.
Founder and CEO Maliha Khan was recognized for her leadership in helping businesses and professionals adopt artificial intelligence in practical, human-centered ways. Khan was the only honoree from Missouri recognized in the Women in AI Leadership category this year and was recognized alongside leaders from national firms including BDO USA, Robert Half, Blackbaud, and Ruder Finn.
“Being recognized in this category means a lot,” said Khan. “I believe small businesses, women-owned businesses, and underrepresented communities deserve access to AI in ways that remain human-centered, strategic, and true to who they are.”
Through Khanect the Dots LLC, Khan helps organizations bridge the gap between strategy and execution—what she calls the messy middle, where strong ideas frequently stall. Her firm helps brands move forward with clarity by blending strategic thinking, creative execution, and practical AI adoption.
Based in Kansas City, Khan has trained business owners and entrepreneurs through partnerships with the Missouri SBDC at UMKC, Central Exchange, and KC Game Plan, and is actively involved in the region’s entrepreneurial ecosystem.
More than 250 professionals worldwide participated in the judging process to select this year’s Stevie Award winners.
“Organizations across the United States continue to set a high standard for innovation and performance,” said Maggie Miller, President of the Stevie Awards. “We congratulate all of this year’s Stevie Award winners and look forward to celebrating their accomplishments at our June 9 awards ceremony in New York.”
Details about The American Business Awards and the complete list of 2026 Stevie winners are available at www.ABA.StevieAwards.com.
About Khanect the Dots LLC
Khanect the Dots LLC is a strategy-first marketing consultancy helping organizations bridge the gap between strategy and execution. Founded by Maliha Khan, the firm helps brands clarify messaging, modernize marketing, and adopt AI through Khan’s Authentic AI approach — practical, human-centered, and true to brand. Its creative arm, Khancepts Studio, brings strategy to life through design and visual storytelling.
About the Stevie Awards
Stevie Awards are conferred in nine programs and receive more than 12,000 entries annually from organizations in more than 70 nations. The awards honor outstanding workplace performance and innovation worldwide.