OpenAI Commits $5 Million to Fund Research on AI and Teen Development

OpenAI published an announcement about its AI and teen development research grants on September 8, 2026. The company is committing $5 million to support independent research examining how generative AI affects the lives and development of young people ages 13–17.

The program focuses on teens' social and emotional development, aiming to build an evidence base to inform product development and answer questions facing policymakers and regulators. OpenAI notes that generative AI is becoming part of how teens learn, create, and seek advice, with effects likely depending on engagement, individual circumstances, and available support from families, schools, communities, and technology providers.

Individual grants will be awarded up to $1 million, with total program funding reaching up to $5 million. Up to 10% of each project's grant may support overhead or indirect costs. Funding can also support student, graduate student, or post-doc involvement in the research. The grants are funded and administered by OpenAI Group PBC.

Applications are open through October 6, 2026. Proposals must be formatted as a single-spaced Google doc and submitted in English. An internal panel of experts and advisors will review submissions on a rolling basis, with selected applicants notified on or before November 13, 2026.

Eligible applicants include academic institutions, non-profit organizations, independent researchers, and research teams. OpenAI stated it will not prioritize for-profit organizations at this time. Preference may be given to research involving ChatGPT, interdisciplinary teams, underrepresented populations or regions, and projects capable of producing evidence for near- or medium-term policy decisions. Funded projects must provide an interim progress update in Q1 2027 and submit a final report.