Key Highlights:
- Open AI launches Grove, a 5-week mentorship program for pre-idea AI entrepreneurs
- Applications close September 24, 2025, with program running October 20 – November 21
- Only 15 participants selected for exclusive access to unreleased tools and models
- In-person workshops at OpenAI’s San Francisco headquarters included
- Graduates can pursue funding, independent projects, or opportunities within OpenAI
Five-week intensive program targets pre-idea founders with exclusive access to tools, San Francisco workshops, and potential funding
OpenAI Grove Program Launch: Revolutionary Startup Accelerator
OpenAI just announced a game-changing initiative that could reshape AI entrepreneurship forever. The company unveiled Grove, a new five-week mentorship program specifically designed for technical talent at the very beginning of their AI startup journey, including those who don’t even have concrete ideas yet.
The ChatGPT maker emphasizes this isn’t a traditional startup accelerator program and specifically offers support for ‘pre-idea’ individuals, making it unique in the crowded accelerator landscape.
AI Startup Mentorship Program: What Makes Grove Different
Unlike traditional accelerators that require developed business plans, Grove welcomes participants who are just exploring AI entrepreneurship. The program offers early access to tools, expert guidance, and support to help participants grow or raise capital, creating an unprecedented opportunity for emerging AI talent.
Participants will get early access to new tools and models, as well as attend in-person workshops at OpenAI’s San Francisco headquarters, providing direct exposure to cutting-edge AI technology before public release.
OpenAI Grove Application Process: September 24 Deadline Approaches
Time is running out for aspiring AI entrepreneurs. Applications are open until September 24, with roughly 15 members joining Grove’s first cohort running from October 20 to November 21, 2025.
The selective nature of the program, accepting only about 15 participants, ensures personalized attention and high-quality mentorship for each selected entrepreneur.
Early-Stage AI Founders Program: Five-Week Intensive Structure
The program runs Monday, October 20th to Friday, November 21st, 2025, with required in-person sessions during the first and last week, plus an additional 4-6 hours of asynchronous work each week in between.
This hybrid approach combines intensive face-to-face collaboration with flexible remote work, accommodating participants while ensuring deep engagement with the OpenAI ecosystem.
OpenAI Entrepreneur Support: Beyond Traditional Acceleration
Graduates can choose to raise capital, pursue projects independently, or even continue working within OpenAI’s ecosystem, offering unprecedented flexibility for program alumni.
With Grove, OpenAI aims to build a long-term network of innovators, offering a unique entry point into the world of AI entrepreneurship, positioning the company as a talent incubator for the entire AI industry.
San Francisco AI Workshops: Exclusive Access to OpenAI Headquarters
The in-person component provides unmatched networking opportunities and direct access to OpenAI’s research team and leadership. Participants will experience the company culture firsthand while building relationships that could prove invaluable for future ventures.
The program structure includes potential funding pathways, with introductions and capital opportunities potentially emerging during or after completion, though funding isn’t guaranteed.
Tech Talent AI Development: Industry Impact and Future
This launch signals OpenAI’s commitment to nurturing the broader AI ecosystem rather than just developing internal technology. By supporting early-stage entrepreneurs, the company is investing in the future of AI innovation across multiple industries and applications.
The program represents a strategic move to position OpenAI at the center of AI entrepreneurship, potentially creating a pipeline of companies that integrate deeply with OpenAI’s technologies and vision for artificial intelligence.
