The Kaipher Editorial Team 
OpenAI has launched OpenAI Grove, a five-week mentorship program targeting entrepreneurs in the earliest stages of AI development, from pre-idea concepts to pre-seed ventures. Announced on September 12 by COO Brad Lightcap, Grove is specifically designed for “pre-idea individuals deeply curious about building in AI” and will provide participants with “a dense talent network, co-building with OpenAI researchers, and resources designed to accelerate your journey” (OpenAI).
Unlike traditional startup accelerators or OpenAI’s existing Pioneer Program launched in April, Grove focuses on individuals who are still exploring concepts and seeking direction in AI entrepreneurship, filling a gap between ideation and structured startup development.
Program Structure and Timeline
The inaugural Grove cohort will include approximately 15 participants and runs from October 20 to November 21, 2025, with applications due by September 24. Hosted at OpenAI’s San Francisco headquarters, the program features in-person workshops, weekly office hours, and mentorship from the company’s technical leaders. Participants will commit to 4-6 hours of asynchronous work each week, with mandatory in-person attendance during the first and last weeks—travel costs covered by OpenAI (Mitrade).
A key benefit includes early access to new OpenAI tools and models before they become publicly available, giving participants a competitive advantage in developing AI applications.
Industry Context and Competition
The venture capital landscape has experienced a dramatic shift toward AI investments, with artificial intelligence companies capturing 71% of U.S. venture funding in 2025, up from 45% the previous year. This surge generated $104.3 billion in funding for AI startups during the first half of 2025 alone, with over 1,300 AI startups now holding valuations exceeding $100 million (Daily Jagran).
Major tech companies have responded with competing accelerator programs: Google introduced its Startups Cloud AI Accelerator last winter, while Microsoft for Startups partnered with PearlX to create an accelerator targeting pre-seed companies, reflecting industry recognition that nurturing early-stage AI talent is crucial for maintaining competitive advantage.
Post-Program Opportunities and Open Access
Following Grove’s completion, participants can continue working with OpenAI, explore raising capital, or pursue ventures within or outside the company’s ecosystem. The program represents part of OpenAI’s broader strategy to build a long-term network of AI innovators and expand its influence in the startup community. Applications are open to individuals from all backgrounds and experience levels, with no requirement to build exclusively on OpenAI’s API platform, and groups are welcome to apply (Joshua Berkowitz).
