OpenAI's CEO Sam Altman is spearheading an extensive initiative to set up AI infrastructure in the United States. The expansive project, anticipated to need financial backing in the range of tens of billions of dollars, seeks to bring together global investors to build the critical infrastructure needed for advancing AI technologies rapidly.
Government Assistance as a Starting Point
OpenAI has initially approached the U.S. government to rally support for his expansive vision. The scheme involves focusing on various U.S. states initially, as part of a larger blueprint to attract international funding.
As per Bloomberg's findings, Altman along with other executives at OpenAI have been actively meeting with potential investors to fund the project. Key interest is expected from investors in countries like Canada, Korea, Japan, and the United Arab Emirates. Microsoft which holds a significant stake in OpenAI, is likely to join this venture.
International Diplomatic Efforts
Key players at OpenAI have been engaging globally to secure investments. Chief Strategy Officer Jason Kwon has made trips to Japan, whereas Chris Lehane, VP of Global Policy, has been in discussions with Canadian investors. Altman himself has conducted meetings with stakeholders in the UAE and across the U.S., as per sources familiar with the matter.
Regulatory Oversight and Ongoing Investment
This ambitious project is under the watchful eye of the Committee on Foreign Investment in the United States (CFIUS). OpenAI has already been in dialogue with the U.S. National Security Council regarding the project's investments.
These developments align with recent talks about a forthcoming multimillion-dollar funding round, which could elevate OpenAI's valuation to over $100 billion. Both Apple and Nvidia are reported to be eyeing stakes in OpenAI, with Microsoft's participation also anticipated.
Thrive Capital is reportedly leading this funding round, with key contributions from Apple, Nvidia, and Microsoft. Since 2019, Microsoft has already invested $13 billion into OpenAI, while Apple partners with OpenAI with ChatGPT integrations in Apple Intelligence. OpenAI is also making corporate changes to ensure it becomes more investor-friendly.
