- Thrive Capital, which is investing more than $1 billion in the latest round.
- Massive funding reflects the growing significance of AI technology in the market.
OUR TAKE
OpenAI’s strategic deal with Thrive Capital is a testament to the burgeoning AI industry’s potential and the significant role of venture capital in fueling its growth. By offering Thrive an exclusive opportunity to invest further at the same valuation, OpenAI not only secures critical financial support but also aligns itself with a partner who shares its vision for the future of AI. This move is indicative of the aggressive expansion plans of OpenAI and the broader industry’s pursuit of innovation, as they aim to stay ahead in the rapidly evolving landscape of artificial intelligence.
–Rebecca Xu, BTW reporter
What happened
In OpenAI’s current $6.5 billion fundraising round, one investor is getting a special deal that no others are receiving. Thrive Capital, which is investing more than $1 billion in the round, has been offered the potential to invest an additional $1 billion next year at the same valuation if the AI firm hits a revenue target.
The current funding round, structured as convertible debt, is expected to close by the end of next week and could value OpenAI at a staggering $150 billion. This would cement the company’s status as one of the most valuable private firms in the world.
However, this valuation is contingent on OpenAI successfully completing a complicated restructuring. The plan, first reported by Reuters, involves removing the control of its non-profit board and eliminating the cap on investment returns to investors.
Also read: OpenAI CEO denies link between executive departures and restructuring
Also read: OpenAI considers restructuring to public benefit firm amid leadership exodus
Why it’s important
This move by OpenAI is significant as it highlights the immense potential and rapid growth of AI technology in the market. The exclusive sweetener offered to Thrive Capital indicates the importance of strategic investments in the AI space. It also underscores the confidence of OpenAI’s management in the company’s ability to meet aggressive revenue targets. The funding round comes amidst a backdrop of a broader AI arms race, with companies across industries investing heavily in AI technology to gain a competitive edge.
By offering Thrive Capital this exclusive sweetener, OpenAI is likely hoping to secure a significant investment from the venture capital firm and demonstrate confidence in the company’s ambitious growth projections. This deal highlights the intense competition and high stakes in the rapidly evolving artificial intelligence industry.
