OpenAI Empowers Change: Launching a Nonprofit Commission to Solve Global Challenges

OpenAI has taken a groundbreaking step towards harnessing artificial intelligence for social impact by announcing the formation of a Nonprofit Commission. This strategic move is designed to extend support to mission-driven organizations and amplify the positive outcomes of AI across pressing global issues.

A Vision for Social Impact

OpenAI is reaffirming its dedication to solving some of humanity's most challenging problems by providing cutting-edge AI tools and significant financial backing to its nonprofit foundation. Through this initiative, organizations working in health, education, scientific discovery, and public service will be better equipped to confront the critical issues of our time.

"This commission is a critical step in ensuring our philanthropic efforts are grounded in real-world insight, driven by people who have devoted their lives to making a difference. Our goal is to maximize the benefits of AGI for as many people as possible."

— Dr. Sue Desmond-Hellmann, OpenAI Board Member and former CEO, Gates Foundation

Guiding Principles and Strategic Advisory

The newly formed Nonprofit Commission will serve as a catalyst for change by partnering with communities and nonprofit leaders to unlock the full potential of AI. Its mission includes:

• Engaging Diverse Voices: Facilitating a transparent, inclusive dialogue that draws on insights from affected communities, nonprofit leaders, and the general public.
• Targeted Impact Areas: Focusing on key sectors such as health, science, education, and public services, with a special emphasis on OpenAI’s home state of California.
• Rapid Implementation: Delivering initial recommendations to the OpenAI Board within 90 days, setting the stage for ongoing feedback and refinement.

"Our guiding principle is clear: to empower a flourishing democracy and an inclusive economy by using AI to tackle long-standing challenges that have hindered progress in communities for far too long."

— Dr. Ross

Influential Leaders at the Helm

The Commission boasts an impressive roster of advisors known for their transformative work:

• Dolores Huerta: An iconic labor leader and civil rights advocate, co-founder of the United Farm Workers, and a recipient of the Presidential Medal of Freedom.
• Monica Lozano: A trailblazer in education and equity, recognized for her leadership roles at ImpreMedia and the College Futures Foundation, and celebrated as one of Fortune’s 50 Most Influential Latinas.
• Dr. Robert K. Ross: A champion for public health and social change, credited with advancing health equity during his tenure at The California Endowment.
• Jack Oliver: A strategic bridge between government, technology, and philanthropy, known for his contributions to initiatives such as Bono’s ONE Campaign.
• Daniel Zingale: A seasoned public policy expert and advocate, renowned for his strategic roles in California governance, including senior advisory positions under notable state leaders.

Convened by Daniel Zingale, the advisory group is set to steer OpenAI’s philanthropic vision, ensuring that AI not only innovates but also makes tangible differences in community well-being.

AI: A Beacon of Hope for Nonprofits

Beyond merely deploying advanced technology, OpenAI's nonprofit arm is envisioned as a transformative force to empower organizations on a large scale. With AI at its core, nonprofits can accelerate groundbreaking research, foster innovation in education and healthcare, and efficiently measure their social impact.

By integrating technology with human insight, OpenAI is paving the way for a future where challenges are met head-on, and diverse communities thrive.

This initiative invites a new era of collaboration, where the synthesis of AI and human expertise drives a more equitable and flourishing society.