OpenAI to Open First Washington D.C. Office Early Next Year, Strengthening Ties with Policymakers

OpenAI has announced plans to open its first office in Washington, D.C., early next year, a move that underscores the company's intention to strengthen its relationships with lawmakers and regulators. The office will house around 30 OpenAI staff members who have been operating from a co-working space in the city over the past year, according to an OpenAI spokesperson. This strategic expansion comes as OpenAI CEO Sam Altman is set to speak at a conference hosted by the Federal Reserve in D.C. on Tuesday. In June, the company launched a new initiative, "OpenAI for Government," and secured a significant contract of up to $200 million from the U.S. Department of Defense. These developments highlight OpenAI's growing presence and influence in governmental and regulatory circles. Chan Park, OpenAI's head of global affairs for the U.S. and Canada, will oversee the D.C. office. Joe Larson, who will join the company later this month as vice president of government, will lead the public sector business. Additionally, Ronnie Chatterji, OpenAI's chief economist, will regularly work from the new location. A key feature of the D.C. office will be "The Workshop," a specialized laboratory designed for nonprofit leaders, policymakers, and educators to test and explore OpenAI's technology. This facility will provide previews of new innovations, training sessions, and collaborative opportunities for experts. OpenAI, currently valued at $300 billion, already has a presence in multiple global cities, including San Francisco, New York, Seattle, London, Paris, Tokyo, and Singapore. The addition of the D.C. office further solidifies its commitment to engaging with and supporting governmental and regulatory bodies in advancing the responsible use of AI. This move is particularly timely, given the rapid pace of AI development and the increasing scrutiny from federal and international authorities. By establishing a physical presence in the nation's capital, OpenAI aims to foster stronger and more direct communication channels, ensuring that its technology aligns with public policy and regulatory frameworks.