Elon Musk's Claim: $100M Donated to OpenAI, Filings Reveal Lower Amount

Discrepancy Found:

  • Scrutiny on Musk's Credibility and OpenAI's Funding Raises Questions

In this article published by TechCrunch on May 17, 2023, writer Mark Harris delves into the contrasting statements made by Elon Musk regarding his donation to OpenAI. Musk, a co-founder of the non-profit artificial intelligence research company, had previously tweeted that he donated $100 million to OpenAI. However, recent investigations based on tax filings reveal a significantly lower amount.


According to the article, the only publicly disclosed cash contribution from Musk to OpenAI was $10 million, made back in 2016. Additionally, it suggests that Musk might have potentially donated an extra $7.8 million to OpenAI through a donor-advised fund. However, the exact source of this additional funding remains uncertain.


The article highlights the ambiguity surrounding Musk's varying claims and speculates on possible explanations. It raises the possibility of a simple misrecollection on Musk's part or an attempt to emphasize the evolving business model of OpenAI. Nevertheless, these conflicting statements have sparked concerns about Musk's credibility and his dedication to OpenAI's mission.

  • Key Details:

- Publication: TechCrunch

- Publication Date: May 17, 2023

- Author: Mark Harris

- Sources: OpenAI's tax filings and the Musk Foundation

- Findings: Publicly disclosed cash contribution of $10 million from Musk to OpenAI

- Possible additional donation of $7.8 million through a donor-advised fund

  • - No definitive explanation provided for Musk's divergent claims

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