OpenAI’s Converge 2 startup accelerator program did indeed take place, according to sources familiar with the program. This comes after months of silence and speculation surrounding its existence. Typically, accelerator programs publicly announce the startups they accept or graduate, but Converge 2 was an exception to this norm.
The lack of information about Converge 2 led to a tech forum buzzing with questions and uncertainty. People who applied to the program heard nothing, and there were no posts about acceptance or rejection notices on the forum. Even in the tech hub of Silicon Valley, where OpenAI is highly regarded, people were unaware of the program’s status.
This silence was unusual considering how OpenAI conducted its first accelerator program, Converge I, in early 2023. They called for applications and publicly announced the first four investments from the OpenAI Startup Fund. However, when it came to Converge 2, there was no press release or public acknowledgment of the companies that received investments. OpenAI also refused to confirm whether the program took place or not, leaving founders and industry insiders puzzled.
The lack of transparency surrounding the program’s participants and outcomes raises questions about the nature of OpenAI’s communication culture. Is it due to strict non-disclosure agreements or simply a preference for keeping things low-key? Even Converge 1 had limited communication, with companies like Cursor.AI being revealed gradually.
It’s worth noting that OpenAI has been under increased scrutiny since early 2023, with reports suggesting the company is seeking another funding round that would value it at $100 billion. Amidst this attention, the OpenAI Startup Fund removed Sam Altman as its owner and appointed Ian Hathaway in his place. However, this change did not hinder the fund’s activities, as it has invested in several new companies since January.
The program’s details remain elusive, but one benefit mentioned is access to OpenAI’s researchers and unreleased model technology. This access suggests that the companies participating in the program may be subject to strict non-disclosure agreements, which aligns with OpenAI’s reported use of NDAs for its employees.
Overall, the secrecy surrounding Converge 2 raises curiosity about OpenAI’s intentions and highlights the company’s growing influence in the tech industry. As OpenAI continues to make waves and attract attention, the demand for transparency and insights into its programs will likely increase.