OpenAI has announced the launch of OpenAI Grove, a first-of-its-kind program designed for technical talent at the very start of their company-building journey. Unlike a traditional startup accelerator, the Grove is focused on pre-idea individuals who are deeply curious about building in AI, offering them a strong talent network, co-building opportunities with OpenAI researchers, and resources to accelerate their path.
The program is structured to help participants develop their thinking, explore potential opportunities, and gain exposure to cutting-edge AI tools in a collaborative environment. It will kick off with five weeks of programming at OpenAI’s headquarters in San Francisco, where selected participants will engage in in-person workshops, weekly office hours, and mentoring sessions with OpenAI’s technical leaders. A key highlight of the initiative is that participants will gain exclusive access to experiment with new OpenAI tools and models before they are generally available.
As part of the Grove experience, participants will be encouraged to ideate, prototype, and refine early-stage concepts with direct input from OpenAI researchers and peers within the Grove community. The initiative is positioned as more than a short-term program—it aims to create a long-term network that continues to support participants well beyond the initial engagement, helping them turn early ideas into meaningful ventures.
The first Grove cohort will be intentionally small, hosting about fifteen participants to ensure a high-touch, collaborative environment. OpenAI is encouraging individuals from diverse backgrounds, disciplines, and experience levels to apply, reflecting its goal of fostering inclusivity in the next generation of AI innovators.
Applications for the inaugural cohort are open until September 24, 2025, giving aspiring participants a chance to secure a place in what could be a launchpad for their future ventures.
