Billionaire entrepreneur Elon Musk has accused the leadership of OpenAI of abandoning the organisation’s founding nonprofit mission and transforming it into a profit-driven enterprise.
Musk made the allegation while testifying in an ongoing court case over the future structure and governance of the artificial intelligence company.
The Tesla and SpaceX chief executive told the court that OpenAI co-founders Sam Altman and Greg Brockman had deviated from the organisation’s original purpose of developing artificial intelligence for the benefit of humanity.
According to Musk, OpenAI was established as a nonprofit organisation intended to prioritise public interest over private gain.
“If we make it okay to loot a charity, the entire foundation of charitable giving in America will be destroyed. That’s my concern,” Musk told the court.
He also claimed to have played a foundational role in the creation of OpenAI.
“I came up with the idea, the name, recruited the key people, taught them everything I know, and provided all of the initial funding,” he said.
Musk maintained that OpenAI was specifically structured as a charity that should not benefit any individual.
However, lawyers representing OpenAI disputed the claims, arguing that Musk himself had previously supported transitioning the company toward a for-profit structure.
OpenAI’s legal team further contended that Musk only initiated legal action after failing to gain control of the organisation.
“What he cares about is Elon Musk being on top,” an OpenAI lawyer said during proceedings.
Musk’s legal representatives argued that OpenAI’s priorities shifted following major investments, including funding from Microsoft.
They alleged that increased financial backing contributed to a stronger commercial focus within the company.
Musk is reportedly seeking about 150 billion dollars in damages and has asked the court to compel OpenAI to return to its nonprofit model.
He is also seeking the removal of Altman and Brockman from leadership positions.
According to Musk, any financial compensation awarded would be directed to OpenAI’s charitable arm.
The case is being presided over by Judge Yvonne Gonzalez Rogers, who reportedly cautioned Musk over his public social media comments regarding the case and his criticism of Altman.
Musk, who co-founded OpenAI in 2015 before later departing the organisation, said concerns over artificial intelligence safety were among his motivations for helping establish the company.
The trial is expected to continue with further testimony from Altman and Microsoft Chief Executive Officer, Satya Nadella.
The case has drawn significant attention as it reflects broader debates within the technology sector over balancing artificial intelligence innovation, commercial interests, and public accountability.
