Why OpenAI is considering becoming a for-profit company

OpenAIwell-known company artificial intelligence which revolutionized the market ChatGPTis planning a major restructuring to attract investors. According to internal sources cited Reutersa company that until now operated on a non-profit model will become a for-profit company.

However, the report indicated that the nonprofit’s board would not completely relinquish control as it would retain a minority stake in the company.

This metamorphosis seeks not only to facilitate investments, but also to offer clarity and liquidity to employees. “The structure would be simpler for investors and would facilitate liquidity for employees OpenAI” explained one of the sources NBCNews.

With restructuring, Sam Altmanthe firm’s CEO, will receive shares in the new profitable company for the first time, which could be worth as much as $150 billion. However, negotiations on this plan are still ongoing and the dates for its completion remain uncertain, he said Reuters.

Senior managers such as Mira Muratithe company’s chief technology officer, left the company amid these changes. “After much thought, I have made the difficult decision to leave OpenAI“, wrote the former director in an internal memo, cit NBCNews. “I’m leaving because I want to create time and space for my own exploration,” he added.

The news caused a stir because Murati played a key role, especially during the turbulent period when Altman was temporarily removed from his post in November.

Bob McGrew and Barrett Zophresearch leader, also announced their departure on the same day. Altman stated on Platform X that these decisions were independent of Murati.

“The timing of Miro’s decision was such that it made sense to do it all at once so we could work together on a smooth transition,” Altman said.

This restructuring cannot be viewed only from a financial perspective, but will directly affect how the organization manages the risks associated with AI under its new management structure. Spokesperson for OpenAI He emphasized, “We remain focused on building AI that benefits everyone, and we are working with our board to ensure we are best positioned to succeed in our mission.”

Founded in 2015 as a non-profit organization for artificial intelligence research, the company has already started to develop in 2019 by creating OpenAI LP as a subsidiary to secure funding from giants like Microsoftaccording to Reuters.

That backing was key as OpenAI’s valuation skyrocketed from $14 billion in 2021 to $150 billion in the convertible debt round it’s currently discussing.

Altman, in a high-sounding statement captured NBCNewsemphasized that the company’s mission has not changed: “Not-for-profit is at the heart of our mission and will continue to be.” This statement underscores the company’s commitment to its founding ideals, despite structural changes.

ChatGPT’s significant growth and success, reaching more than 200 million weekly active users, has fueled huge interest in AI investment around the world. This led to funds such as Flourish capital and other large technology companies such as Apple, Microsoft and Nvidia are interested in providing capital, according to the same Reuters sources.

In connection with this constant expansion and transformation, it is worth noting that previous notables from OpenAI They also left the company. Ilya Sutskever and Jan Leikeco-founders and security leaders, announced their retirements last May. John Schulman, another co-founder, joined a rival company Anthropic in July.

With all these changes, it remains to be seen how OpenAI navigates this complex restructuring process while maintaining its mission and considering the implications for AI risk management.