OpenAI, the trailblazing company behind ChatGPT, is exploring a new funding round, aiming for a valuation of $100 billion or more, sources familiar with the matter revealed. This potential funding would solidify OpenAI’s position as one of the world’s most valuable startups, trailing only SpaceX in the U.S. startup landscape.

While the discussions are in their early stages, investors have been brought into preliminary talks. Key details, including the terms and timing of the funding round, remain fluid and subject to change.

If successful, this funding round would propel OpenAI to a valuation of $100 billion, following a separate tender offer led by Thrive Capital, expected to conclude in early January, allowing employees to sell shares at an $86 billion valuation.

OpenAI’s ascent in valuation traces back to the introduction of ChatGPT, a chatbot capable of generating human-like responses, marking the inception of the generative artificial intelligence frenzy. The company’s prominence attracted significant investments, including a commitment of over $10 billion from Microsoft, fueling OpenAI’s meteoric rise.

The AI landscape has witnessed heightened competition, with major players like Amazon, Alphabet, and Salesforce investing billions in OpenAI’s rivals. The company has also engaged in talks for funding a new chip venture with G42, an Abu Dhabi-based company.

Led by CEO Sam Altman, OpenAI aims to raise between $8 billion and $10 billion from G42 for the chip project, known as Tigris. The initiative seeks to develop semiconductors to compete with industry leader Nvidia in the AI chip market.

OpenAI’s journey faced a brief period of uncertainty when Altman was abruptly removed from his position, causing concern among investors. However, Altman was reinstated, and a new board was appointed, signaling the company’s commitment to refocus on its products.

As discussions unfold, OpenAI continues to play a pivotal role in shaping the future of artificial intelligence, with its innovative projects and strategic investments positioning it at the forefront of the rapidly evolving tech landscape.