OpenAI Foundation announced on Dec. 3 the first recipients from its People-First AI Fund, a multi-million-dollar investment in community-based nonprofits working to strengthen local communities and expand the opportunity of artificial intelligence.
Illinois Philharmonic Orchestra the only professional orchestra to be awarded a grant.
AI has been a red-hot topic as it rapidly reshapes nearly every industry around the world. Rooted in classical music, IPO has long been a forward-thinking organization and is keen to investigate utilizing the technology to enhance and bolster its mission and efforts.
“IPO champions live music and live arts experiences. IPO also recognizes AI’s potential to strengthen civic and cultural life, if applied thoughtfully,” IPO Executive Director Christina Salerno said. “We see AI not as a replacement for human artistry, but as a tool to expand access, enhance participation and amplify community voice.
“By combining our history of professional programming with new AI capacity, IPO will work to ensure that orchestral music remains a transformative, inclusive force for communities in Chicago’s Southland. We’re excited to embark upon this new journey and are hopeful that the path will lead to more opportunities for artists, students, and audiences.”
Through an open call, the Foundation will provide $40.5 million in unrestricted grants to 208 nonprofits across the United States. From a pool of nearly 3,000 applicants, IPO is one of 18 arts and culture organizations chosen for the grant and one of only five performing arts organizations to receive an award.
A second wave of $9.5 million in board-directed grants will be announced in the coming months, supporting organizations already advancing transformative AI work in areas like health that reflect the Fund’s people-first values and potential for broad public benefit.
“The People-First AI Fund reflects our commitment to supporting a wide range of organizations advancing work that strengthens communities and expands opportunity,” Bret Taylor, Chair of the OpenAI Foundation Board, said. “We’re proud to support this first group of grantees and to continue work that is mission-driven and responsive to the people it exists to serve.”
See The OpenAI Foundation’s complete announcement here.
