An advisory board at OpenAI has recommended that the company should remain under nonprofit control. The board believes AI technology is too important to be governed solely by a corporation. The advisory group, which includes labour organiser Dolores Huerta, suggests that communities impacted by AI should have input on its development.
Founded in 2015 as a nonprofit, OpenAI transitioned to a for-profit model and now has a $300 billion valuation. This shift has faced scrutiny, including a brief removal of CEO Sam Altman in 2023 and legal challenges. OpenAI has proposed converting its for-profit arm into a public benefit corporation, with the nonprofit holding shares.
The advisory board is advocating for significant funding to support public interest projects like AI education and economic opportunities. They also propose a rapid-response fund and ensuring human leadership within the nonprofit. The commission recommends focusing on closing gaps in economic opportunity, investing in AI literacy and creating an organisation accessible to everyday people.
