OpenAI proposes public benefit corporation model to drive AI development

OpenAI, the artificial intelligence powerhouse founded in 2015 as a research-focused nonprofit, is exploring a significant organisational shift that could establish a more conventional revenue-generating corporation alongside its nonprofit foundation.

In a blog post on Friday, the company’s board revealed it is evaluating a proposal to convert its business operations into a Delaware Public Benefit Corporation (PBC). This structure would allow the for-profit arm to pursue profits while maintaining a societal mission. The nonprofit arm would retain a significant stake in the profit-driven entity, holding shares valued by independent financial advisers.