OpenAI has unveiled a $50 million fund dedicated to supporting nonprofit organizations and community groups, marking a significant step in the company’s efforts to ensure artificial intelligence serves public interest objectives.
The new fund is the first major initiative following recommendations from OpenAI’s nonprofit commission, which was established in April 2025 to guide the company’s philanthropic direction amid a broader shift in its corporate structure.
According to OpenAI, the fund will back partnerships that leverage AI for impact across education, healthcare, economic development, and grassroots community organizing. It will also enable research and innovation led by local communities to explore how AI can be applied for public benefit.
“This initiative underscores our commitment to developing AI that benefits all people,” the company said in a statement. “By supporting community-driven solutions, we aim to expand equitable access to the transformative power of AI.”
The move comes as OpenAI prepares to transition its for-profit business into a public benefit corporation, with its nonprofit parent retaining controlling interest. The newly formed nonprofit commission plays a key role in ensuring that this governance shift aligns with OpenAI’s founding mission.
To shape the fund’s strategy, the commission conducted consultations with more than 500 nonprofit leaders, community organizers, and experts. Their input helped define key focus areas and guardrails for ensuring responsible and inclusive deployment of AI technologies.
The $50 million fund is expected to catalyze new collaborations and empower mission-driven organizations to harness AI for the greater good.
