OpenAI, famous for its ChatGPT artificial intelligence tool, recently announced that it would maintain its current structure, despite external debates and pressure. While critical voices, including that of Elon Musk, have spoken out against its operations, the company has chosen to preserve its hybrid status, combining a non-profit parent company with a commercial subsidiary.
A decision motivated by transparency and accountability
This decision comes after discussions with leaders in the technology community and consultations with regulatory authorities in California and Delaware. OpenAI also collaborated with Microsoft, its main business partner, to finalize this hybrid organization.
Why is this structure important?
By adopting the status of a public benefit corporation, OpenAI seeks to reconcile two often conflicting objectives: maximizing social impact while ensuring sufficient revenue to support its innovation projects. This structure allows employees, investors, and the non-profit organization to hold shares, thus ensuring a balance between social mission and financial viability.
Questions remain
Although this choice appears to be a well-considered compromise, certain questions remain. How can the pursuit of profit be reconciled with the mission of social responsibility? And how will assets be distributed among the various stakeholders involved? These issues are at the heart of the current debates surrounding OpenAI.
OpenAI's decision to maintain a hybrid structure demonstrates its commitment to remaining true to its values of responsible innovation. It remains to be seen whether this strategy will be enough to appease critics and ensure sustainable growth in a rapidly changing sector.