OpenAI hosted its Nonprofit AI Jam in Bengaluru on January 15, convening leaders from across India’s social sector to explore how artificial intelligence can be applied to deliver more effective and scalable outcomes. Part of a multi-city global initiative, the Bengaluru edition focused on moving beyond theory to practical implementation—helping mission-driven organisations translate AI capabilities into tools that address real-world challenges. The company shared details of the initiative in a statement with AIM.
The workshop brought together nonprofit organisations working in diverse domains, including education, public health, skilling, climate action, and gender inclusion. Rather than abstract discussions, participants were encouraged to surface pressing operational and programmatic challenges from their daily work. These challenges were then explored collaboratively with technical experts, who helped design AI-driven solutions tailored to the specific contexts and constraints of social impact organisations.
Commenting on the intent behind the initiative, OpenAI said, “The Jam reflects OpenAI’s commitment to ensuring that advanced AI is accessible and useful not only to large organisations, but also to mission-driven teams working closest to communities,” adding that the broader objective is to help nonprofits identify and apply practical AI use cases within the social sector. The emphasis was on responsible, context-aware adoption of AI that enhances efficiency, reach, and decision-making without losing sight of ethical considerations.
The Bengaluru AI Jam was delivered in partnership with Karya, with Wadhwani AI supporting the initiative as a knowledge partner. OpenAI noted that the engagement is designed to extend beyond the single-day workshop. Participants will continue to have access to shared learning resources, peer networks, and collaborative opportunities, enabling them to refine and deploy AI solutions over time.
The timing of the Bengaluru Jam is also significant, as it was held ahead of the AI Impact Summit in India, scheduled for February 19 and 20, 2026, in New Delhi. The upcoming summit is expected to bring together global leaders, policymakers, and practitioners to discuss how AI can be deployed responsibly, inclusively, and at scale to drive social and economic impact.
By hosting the Nonprofit AI Jam in Bengaluru, OpenAI reinforced India’s growing role in shaping applied AI for social good, highlighting how grassroots challenges and global technology capabilities can come together to create meaningful, community-level change.
