OpenAI announces Grove program for early-stage AI startups

OpenAI has introduced a new initiative called OpenAI Grove to support individuals who are at the very beginning of their company-building journey in artificial intelligence. Unlike a traditional startup accelerator, the program focuses on pre-idea talent and provides access to mentorship, technical guidance, and early exposure to OpenAI’s latest tools. The Grove program is designed for people with curiosity and technical ambition but who may not yet have a fully formed startup idea.

Participants will be enrolled in a five-week program hosted at OpenAI’s headquarters in San Francisco. The structure will include in-person workshops, weekly office hours, and one-on-one mentoring sessions with OpenAI researchers and technical leaders.

The program is not just about technical training, but is intended to create a long-term network of founders, researchers, and innovators who can collaborate as they explore early concepts. Participants will be part of a close-knit community, sharing knowledge with peers and receiving guidance on shaping their initial directions.

One of the key benefits that OpenAI Grove will provide is access to OpenAI’s newest models and tools before they become widely available. This hands-on exposure will help participants experiment and test their ideas quickly.

Alongside technical support, participants will also gain advice on potential pathways after the program, including whether to raise capital or pursue opportunities within or outside of OpenAI.