OpenAI invests $5 million in research on ai's impact on teen development

OpenAI has announced a $5 million investment to support independent research on how generative AI influences the lives and development of teenagers aged 13 to 17. The initiative aims to build a stronger evidence base on teen AI usage and its impacts, with a focus on social and emotional development. The program encourages interdisciplinary research across fields such as psychology, public health, and AI safety, and welcomes proposals from researchers worldwide, with a preference for underrepresented regions. Applications are open until October 6, 2026, with selected proposals to be notified by November 13, 2026. Each grant can be up to $1 million, with a total funding cap of $5 million. OpenAI Group PBC is administering the grants, and funded projects will be required to submit interim updates and final reports. Research may be conducted in any language, though applications must be submitted in English. The grants are intended for non-profit research, not for-profit initiatives.