The OpenAI Foundation has announced a $50 million commitment to its People-First AI Fund to expand support for community-based organizations and local nonprofits exploring practical, community-led engagement with AI to improve access to services and information, expand opportunity, and strengthen community participation.

The People-First AI Fund was launched in 2025 following recommendations from the Foundation’s Nonprofit Commission to support community organizations working at the intersection of innovation and public good.

The Foundation said the initial funding round highlighted demand for resources that help nonprofits engage with AI while strengthening their missions.

“Building on learnings from the initial fund and feedback from communities, we have updated the focus areas and eligibility criteria including expanding eligibility to certain community foundations and regranting organizations,” the Foundation said.

The Foundation will fund organizations working across three areas: community support services, community arts and cultural organizations, and community journalism and media.

Under community support services, priority will be given to organizations that help people navigate complex systems and access critical resources, including legal aid, public benefits, and disability and accessibility services.

The fund will also support projects exploring how AI can expand access to arts and cultural participation.

The fund also supports community journalism and media organizations working to strengthen local information ecosystems and help communities engage thoughtfully with AI.

Under the eligibility criteria, the Fund will provide unrestricted grants to community-based organizations that demonstrate strong community trust, maintain direct partnerships with the populations they serve, and have an interest in exploring how AI can strengthen their work and impact.

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