tell me who is the owner of you

OpenAI, the organization behind the AI you are interacting with, operates under a unique business structure that includes both nonprofit and for-profit elements. Initially founded as a nonprofit in 2015, OpenAI has evolved to incorporate a capped-profit model, significantly influenced by substantial investments from major tech firms.

Ownership Structure of OpenAI

1. Foundational Organization

OpenAI began as a nonprofit entity named OpenAI, Inc., which was established to develop artificial intelligence safely and beneficially. This provides a foundation for its operational ethos and mission integrity. However, to scale its initiatives and attract necessary investment, OpenAI later established for-profit subsidiaries.

2. Major Investors

As of October 2025, a significant portion of OpenAI's funding comes from a consortium of investors that has increasingly shaped its ownership landscape:

• Microsoft is reported to have a 28% stake in OpenAI, marking it as the largest shareholder. This relationship has been vital, given Microsoft's ongoing partnerships and investments positioning both companies at the forefront of AI advancement.
• Other notable investors include SoftBank, Thrive Capital, and Dragoneer Investment Group, which collectively participated in substantial funding rounds that have elevated OpenAI's valuation to approximately $500 billion as of recent market activities Reuters, The New York Times.

3. Employee Ownership

Current and former employees also played a crucial role in OpenAI's ownership dynamics. They collectively sold around $6.6 billion in shares, diversifying the ownership structure and allowing for a more extensive participation of stakeholders in the company's future TechCrunch.

Conclusion

The governance of OpenAI reflects a balanced approach toward combining nonprofit objectives with for-profit incentives. While the organization retains independence, the collaboration with substantial investors, especially Microsoft, has significantly influenced its operational strategies and financial growth. This unique structure helps OpenAI to pursue its mission of developing safe and beneficial AI while navigating the complexities of corporate investment and technological advancement.