OpenAI has announced it is accepting applications for the next cohort of OpenAI Grove, a specialized program designed for technical talent at the very beginning of their company-building journey in the artificial intelligence sector.
The program offers a unique opportunity for individuals in the pre-idea phase to immerse themselves in a high-density talent network and collaborate directly with researchers and leaders at the forefront of AI development.
What Is OpenAI Grove
Unlike a traditional startup accelerator, OpenAI Grove is not focused on existing companies but on individuals with deep technical curiosity. The program is structured to provide a supportive environment for exploring early-stage concepts, offering counsel from the OpenAI team, and fostering a community of peers.
The primary goal is to accelerate the journey of promising individuals by providing them with a foundational network and resources before they have a fully-formed business idea.
Program Structure and Benefits
The five-week program will be hosted in person at OpenAI’s headquarters in San Francisco and will accept an exclusive cohort of approximately fifteen participants.
Selected individuals will gain access to in-person workshops, weekly office hours, and direct mentorship from OpenAI’s technical leaders. A key benefit includes the opportunity to get hands-on experience with new OpenAI tools and models before they are made available to the public. Following the program, participants can explore raising capital or pursue other opportunities, whether internal or external to OpenAI.
An Opportunity For MENA’s AI Innovators
For founders and technical professionals across the MENA region, the OpenAI Grove program represents a significant gateway to the global AI ecosystem. As countries like the UAE and Saudi Arabia heavily invest in becoming AI hubs, access to world-class mentorship and networks is invaluable.
This program offers a direct line to the heart of Silicon Valley’s AI scene, allowing MENA-based talent to learn from the industry’s pioneers, build international connections, and gain insights that can be applied to solving regional challenges. For the burgeoning AI startup scene in the Middle East, participants can return with the knowledge and network needed to build globally competitive companies from the region.
Application Details
Applications are open to individuals from all backgrounds, disciplines, and levels of experience. Aspiring founders can apply as individuals, and the deadline for submission is January 12th, 2026.
About OpenAI Grove
OpenAI Grove is a five-week program designed for technical individuals at the pre-idea stage of their entrepreneurial journey. Hosted at OpenAI’s San Francisco headquarters, the program offers a dense talent network, mentorship from OpenAI researchers, and early access to new AI models and tools to help accelerate participants’ exploration of early-stage concepts.
Source: OpenAI
