Announcing OpenAI Grove Cohort 2

2025-12-18 · Source: OpenAI News · Field: Technology & Digital — Artificial Intelligence & Machine Learning, Entrepreneurship & Start-ups, Emerging Technologies & Innovation · Depth: Intermediate, quick

Summary

OpenAI has opened applications for the next cohort of OpenAI Grove, a five-week program for technical talent in the early stages of company building, specifically those who are pre-idea or just starting out in AI. The program, running from January 22nd to February 27th, 2026, will host approximately fifteen participants at OpenAI's San Francisco HQ for in-person workshops, office hours, and mentoring from technical leaders. Participants will gain access to a dense talent network, co-building opportunities with OpenAI researchers, and early access to new OpenAI tools and models. Applications are due by January 12th, 2026, and the program covers travel costs for the required in-person sessions during the first and last weeks.

Key takeaway

For AI entrepreneurs considering their next steps, applying to OpenAI Grove offers a unique opportunity to accelerate your company-building journey. This program provides direct access to OpenAI's expertise and tools, a critical network, and a structured environment to develop early-stage concepts. If you are pre-idea or in inception, this could significantly shape your venture's foundation.

Key insights

OpenAI Grove fosters early-stage AI company builders through mentorship, community, and exclusive access to OpenAI resources.

Principles

• Support pre-idea founders.
• Prioritize community and mentorship.
• Provide early access to tools.

Method

The program combines five weeks of in-person workshops and office hours with asynchronous work, offering counsel from OpenAI teams and peer interaction.

In practice

• Apply by January 12th, 2026.
• Prepare for in-person sessions in San Francisco.
• Explore building with or without OpenAI APIs.

Topics

• OpenAI Grove
• AI Startup Program
• Early-Stage Founders
• AI Research Collaboration
• AI Model Access

Best for: Entrepreneur, AI Engineer, AI Product Manager

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Editorial summary, takeaway, and curation by AIssential. Original article published by OpenAI News.