OpenAI raises $6.6 billion in funding as it shifts to for-profit model

OpenAI has raised $6.6 billion in venture capital, marking a significant shift from its nonprofit origins. The funding, led by Thrive Capital and supported by Microsoft, Nvidia, and SoftBank, is one of the largest in U.S. history. This investment values OpenAI at $157 billion and aims to enhance its AI research and computing capacity. The company is transitioning towards a for-profit model, moving away from its nonprofit governance structure. The funding round includes several investors but notably excludes Apple. OpenAI's partnership with Microsoft has provided substantial resources, but the company seeks additional funding to compete with rivals like Elon Musk's xAI.