OpenAI, the AI lab most famous for developing ChatGPT, has been steadily establishing a presence in the startup ecosystem as an investor and acquirer.
In the last 2 years, it has backed more than 20 AI startups — mostly via its OpenAI Startup Fund (which has LPs including Microsoft and other OpenAI investors) — many of which are building on OpenAI’s own infrastructure. The company itself also doles out occasional grants and has acquired 3 startups in the last year.
OpenAI’s recent investments point to potential growth opportunities for the firm, especially as it faces pressure to earn its eye-watering $80B valuation and stay ahead of competitors in the fast-moving generative AI market.
Below, we dig into where OpenAI has placed its bets so far across investments and acquisitions. We also look at the areas it could target next.
