The Information reported that Sam Altman's vision for OpenAI appears to be evolving from its original conception when he co-founded the startup with highly skilled partners, planning to transition it towards a for-profit strategy.
OpenAI, the organization responsible for the widely known chatbot ChatGPT, is contemplating a significant change in its management framework. Last week, CEO Sam Altman notified certain shareholders that a for-profit business modelwould no longer be under the control of its current non-profit board.
With a private valuation approaching $86 billion, OpenAI is exploring this transformation to support its goals of advancing artificial general intelligence (AGI) research, bolstering its financial position, and expanding its technological influence.
OpenAI Adopting A For-Profit Corporation
One option currently under review is adopting a for-profit benefit corporation model, similar to those embraced by OpenAI's competitors like Anthropic and xAI. This would enable OpenAI to seek profits while maintaining a focus on broader societal benefits, citing someone familiar with the comments.
According to The Information, should OpenAI adopt a for-profit business strategy, it would result in the loss of control by the current non-profit board. However, the company's website still indicates that shareholders' investments are considered donations to date.
Exploration of Alternative Options to Sustain OpenAI's Vision
Altman is reportedly exploring alternative options to generate a sustainable revenue stream due to insufficient funds to sustain OpenAI's non-profit vision. This effort to change the company's business model coincides with Altman's recent restructuring of the board, which includes his addition and three new members. Paul Nakasone, a retired U.S. Army General and former head of the National Security Agency, recently joined the board of OpenAI. Edward Snowden, a former U.S. intelligence contractor, has expressed strong disapproval of Nakasone's appointment.
Altman is also contemplating another possibility: OpenAI might adopt the name B-Corp and concentrate exclusively on profit generation, operating independently of the non-profit board. However, as a B-Corp, OpenAI would be obligated to consider financial gains and the broader societal implications of its existence and future actions.
Discussions about restructuring at OpenAI are still ongoing and subject to change, with Altman and the board of directors ultimately deciding on a different course of action. Responding to Reuters queries, OpenAI emphasized its continued commitment to developing AI for the benefit of all, highlighting that the non-profit aspect remains fundamental to its mission and will be preserved.
OpenAI's Backlash from Elon Musk
Proposed changes at OpenAI have sparked controversy, drawing criticism from public figures like Elon Musk, who had previously backed the company's profit-oriented strategies. Musk has openly disapproved of recent developments, such as introducing new products like the Sora text-to-video AI platform. His accusations of a "Breach of Mission" against OpenAI highlight the increased scrutiny and debate over the company's commitments and the ethical implications of its technological progress.
