OpenAI has established a nonprofit commission to steer its philanthropic initiatives, marking a new phase in the AI company’s evolving corporate structure.
The move comes as the Microsoft-backed firm continues to balance its growing commercial interests with its stated mission of benefiting humanity through artificial intelligence.
The commission, announced Tuesday, is part of a broader reorganization first outlined in December. At that time, OpenAI revealed plans to transition to a public benefit corporation, allowing it to scale operations and attract funding while still adhering to its original ethical commitments.
Daniel Zingale, a veteran leader in California’s public and nonprofit sectors, will lead the newly formed commission as convener. Joining him as advisors are Dolores Huerta, Monica Lozano, Robert Ross, and Jack Oliver—each of whom brings extensive experience from community-focused organizations.
According to OpenAI, the commission will serve as a bridge between the company and the communities impacted by AI technologies. It will collect input on how OpenAI’s philanthropic efforts can address systemic challenges in sectors such as healthcare, education, science, and public services.
Findings from the commission are expected to be presented to OpenAI’s board within 90 days.
This development comes amid legal tensions between OpenAI and its co-founder Elon Musk. Musk, who parted ways with the company in 2018, filed a lawsuit last year claiming OpenAI had deviated from its original nonprofit mission in favor of profit-driven motives. A group of former OpenAI employees recently submitted a legal brief supporting Musk’s position.
In response, OpenAI countersued Musk last week, alleging a campaign of harassment and seeking a court order to prevent further “unlawful and unfair actions” as the dispute over the company’s direction intensifies.
OpenAI is currently in the process of raising up to $40 billion in a new funding round that could value the company at $300 billion, reflecting its rapid ascent as a major force in the global AI industry.
