OpenAI Distributes $40.5M to 200+ Nonprofits in First Grant Wave
OpenAI has awarded $40.5 million to over 200 nonprofits in its first round of grants. The funding comes from the newly rebranded OpenAI Foundation, which was originally established as a nonprofit in 2015. Over 3,000 organizations applied, with grantees ranging from journalism groups to dance companies and community projects.
The grants are unrestricted, allowing nonprofits to use the money as they see fit. OpenAI encouraged applications focused on AI literacy, civic engagement, or economic opportunity. Notably, few of the selected projects were directly linked to technology.
One recipient, the Three Rivers Young People’s Orchestras, received $90,000—covering 10% of its yearly budget. The funds will support research into two apps designed for rehearsal recordings and note-taking. Meanwhile, OpenAI's for-profit division has launched a separate $2 million grant program for AI and mental health research, with awards to be announced by mid-January.
The OpenAI Foundation has also pledged $25 billion for health research and AI resilience initiatives. This follows a July announcement of $50 million in grants, with an additional $9.5 million to be distributed later based on board and advisory recommendations. In October, OpenAI agreed with regulators to reincorporate as a public benefit corporation, keeping its nonprofit board as the ultimate decision-maker.
The first round of grants marks a major step in OpenAI's philanthropic efforts. With $40.5 million already distributed and more funding planned, the foundation is supporting a wide range of nonprofits. The organization's shift to a public benefit structure ensures its nonprofit board retains oversight of key decisions.
