OpenAI has recently raised $6.6 billion in a funding round that values the company at $157 billion, nearly doubling its previous valuation of $86 billion. This funding round, reported by The Wall Street Journal, includes conditions allowing investors to withdraw their funds if OpenAI fails to transition from a nonprofit to a fully for-profit entity. Thrive Capital led the round with a $1.25 billion investment, while Microsoft contributed just under $1 billion, adding to its previous support of $13 billion. New investors, such as SoftBank and Nvidia, also participated, with SoftBank investing $500 million and Nvidia $100 million. The United Arab Emirates-based MGX joined the funding effort as well, having recently engaged in AI partnerships. Although Apple was initially in discussions to invest, it ultimately chose not to participate, with a minimum investment threshold set at $250 million for reviewing OpenAI’s financials. OpenAI’s first chief financial officer, Sarah Friar, was instrumental in organizing this funding round. The developments indicate a significant shift in OpenAI’s financial landscape and strategic direction.
