GRAPHIC APPAREL SHOPFor many aspiring founders, taking the first step in artificial intelligence can feel daunting especially if you haven’t landed on a breakthrough concept yet. OpenAI just announced Grove , a program for innovators offering a unique assistance built specifically for technical talent at the earliest stages of their entrepreneurial journey. Rather than focusing solely on scaling existing startups, Grove is all about exploration, learning, and building the right community from the ground up.
Key Benefits for Participants
- Mentorship & Support: Work directly with OpenAI’s technical leaders and join a network of high-caliber peers.
- Cutting-Edge Resources: Experiment with new tools and models before public release, with hands-on guidance tailored to your progress.
- Capital & Opportunity: After completing Grove, participants can connect with potential investors or explore roles within and beyond the OpenAI community.
- Flexible Entry Points: The program welcomes individuals and teams at the pre-idea, inception, or pre-seed stage of their journey.
What Makes OpenAI Grove Unique?
Grove is designed for individuals who are either pre-idea or just beginning to shape their vision for an AI-driven company. The program’s core mission is to help participants discover and experiment alongside OpenAI’s researchers and a cohort of like-minded peers.
This approach ensures that founders build a strong foundation before diving into product development or business scaling. Participants gain early access to OpenAI’s advanced models and tools, plus the chance to form lasting relationships within the AI ecosystem.
Inside the Grove Experience
- Five Weeks, Full Immersion: The program runs for five weeks at OpenAI’s San Francisco headquarters, featuring in-person kickoff and closing sessions with travel covered.
- Flexible Learning: Participants commit to 4–6 hours of asynchronous work each week, balancing hands-on programming with focused workshops.
- Expert Guidance: Weekly office hours, technical workshops, and direct mentorship from OpenAI leaders ensure personalized support throughout the program.
- Strong Community: Collaboration is at the heart of Grove, with a tight-knit peer group that encourages sharing, problem-solving, and deep connections.
- Early Access to Innovation: Engage with unreleased OpenAI models and tools, giving you a competitive edge as you brainstorm and prototype new ideas.
Who Should Consider Applying?
Whether you’re a solo founder or part of a small team, Grove is open to all backgrounds and experience levels. The selection process is intentionally inclusive, you don’t need a fully formed idea, and your product doesn’t have to rely on OpenAI’s APIs. Grove is seeking curious, ambitious people with a passion for AI and a desire to build something new.
Program Timeline and Application Details
The first Grove cohort accepts applications through September 24, 2025. The program runs from October 20 to November 21, 2025, and will host approximately fifteen participants. This small cohort ensures you’ll receive personalized attention and have ample opportunity to form meaningful connections.
How Grove Differs from Other OpenAI Initiatives
While programs like OpenAI Pioneers and OpenAI for Startups serve more mature companies, Grove is focused on the ideation phase, helping founders clarify their vision and build the right network before scaling. If you’re searching for a launchpad that prioritizes learning and collaboration over rapid acceleration, Grove offers an ideal environment to start your AI journey.
Your Invitation to the AI Frontier
OpenAI Grove stands out as a launchpad for future AI innovators, offering unmatched access to expertise, resources, and community at the most crucial early stage. With direct mentorship and a unique peer network, Grove helps you move from curiosity to creation. If you’re ready to take your first step into AI entrepreneurship, this could be the opportunity you’ve been waiting for.
OpenAI Grove: A New Launchpad for Aspiring AI Founders