OpenAI Cybersecurity Grant Program

The OpenAI Cybersecurity Grant Program represents a pioneering $1 million initiative launched by OpenAI to revolutionize the cybersecurity landscape through artificial intelligence applications. As one of the leading AI research companies and creator of ChatGPT, OpenAI recognizes the critical need to empower cybersecurity defenders with cutting-edge AI capabilities while fostering high-level discourse at the intersection of AI and cybersecurity. The program aims to fundamentally change the power dynamics of cybersecurity by ensuring that advanced AI technologies benefit defenders first and most effectively. The primary purpose of this grant program is threefold: to empower defenders globally, measure AI cybersecurity capabilities, and elevate discourse in the field. OpenAI seeks to work with defenders across the globe to shift the traditional cybersecurity paradigm where attackers have historically held advantages. The program specifically targets practical applications of AI in defensive cybersecurity, including tools, methods, and processes that can detect and mitigate social engineering tactics, automate incident triage, identify security issues in source code, assist with network and device forensics, automatically patch vulnerabilities, and optimize patch management processes. Since its launch two years ago, the program has reviewed over one thousand applications and successfully funded 28 research initiatives, gaining critical insights into areas such as prompt injection, secure code generation, and autonomous cybersecurity defenses. The funding scope encompasses grants distributed in increments of $10,000 USD from the total $1 million fund, provided in the form of API credits, direct funding, or equivalent resources. The program has evolved to include new priority focus areas including software patching leveraging AI to detect and patch vulnerabilities, model privacy enhancements to protect against unintended exposure of private training data, improved detection and response capabilities against advanced persistent threats, security integration to boost accuracy and reliability of AI integration with security tools, and agentic security for emerging AI agents. Additionally, OpenAI has introduced microgrants in the form of API credits for high-quality proposals to help researchers quickly prototype innovative cybersecurity ideas and experiments. Eligibility for the program is intentionally broad, welcoming applications from individuals, corporate teams, academic institutions, and research organizations worldwide. The program specifically seeks thoughtful, focused ideas at the intersection of AI and security from applicants who have encountered cases where current AI models fall short in security applications or who see new angles where AI could help in security. All projects must be intended to be licensed or distributed for maximal public benefit and sharing, with OpenAI prioritizing applications that have a clear plan for this open distribution. Importantly, offensive security projects are explicitly excluded from funding consideration, maintaining the program's focus on defensive applications. The application process operates on a rolling basis through an online submission form, allowing for continuous evaluation and acceptance of proposals. Applicants must submit a complete project proposal in plaintext format, limited to 3000 words maximum, clearly describing the problem they seek to solve, their methodology, project timeline, and funding justification. The application requires detailed information about team members and their roles, relevant research papers, and how results will be made available to others. OpenAI values small, well-executed projects over larger but spread-thin initiatives, emphasizing clear goal definition and methodology explanation. Evaluation criteria focus on practical impact potential, innovation at the AI-security intersection, clear execution plans, and commitment to open sharing of results. OpenAI looks for teams that demonstrate unique positioning to execute their proposed projects and show promise for meaningful contribution to the cybersecurity defense ecosystem. The organization emphasizes collaboration and openness, encouraging teams to share findings early, connect with others, and help push the boundaries of AI in security. Applications are accepted continuously on a rolling basis, with OpenAI evaluating proposals as they are received. While specific deadlines are not established due to the rolling nature, the program maintains active review processes and contacts promising teams even when immediate funding may not be available. The organization has processed thousands of applications across previous rounds and maintains flexibility for applicants to submit revised proposals with improvements. Contact information and detailed application guidelines are available through the official OpenAI website and application portal, with the program representing OpenAI's ongoing commitment to AI safety and security excellence on their path toward artificial general intelligence.

Focus on small, well-executed projects rather than large spread-thin initiatives. Clearly define goals, methodology, and team positioning. Value collaboration and openness. Share findings early and connect with others.