OpenAI Takes Strategic Stake in Thrive Holdings in AI-Powered Business Expansion

OpenAI has acquired a meaningful equity position in Thrive Holdings without cash investment, according to people familiar with the matter. The artificial intelligence giant exchanged access to its technology stack and engineering talent for the stake, gaining both ownership in the acquisition vehicle and future revenue participation.

The deal deepens ties between Sam Altman's AI lab and Josh Kushner's Thrive Capital, which led OpenAI's $1 billion+ funding round in late 2024. Thrive Holdings was specifically created to purchase and modernize accounting and IT service firms using AI—a strategy now directly supported by OpenAI's involvement.

Under the arrangement, OpenAI will receive proprietary business data from Thrive's portfolio companies to enhance its model training. The AI firm's commercial teams will collaborate directly with acquired businesses to implement its technology across financial and professional services workflows.