OpenAI is offering private equity firms a guaranteed minimum return of 17.5% as it seeks investment into joint ventures to accelerate enterprise AI adoption. The proposed partnerships would allow buyout firms to deploy OpenAI’s technology across their portfolio companies, scaling usage while mitigating high upfront costs. This strategy aims to compete with Anthropic for private equity backing, with both firms pursuing joint ventures to expand their enterprise market presence.

OpenAI’s offer includes early access to its latest AI models, downside protection, and preferential terms to attract investors like TPG and Advent. The joint venture model supports clearer revenue segmentation and strengthens positioning for potential public listings. However, some firms have declined participation, citing concerns over long-term profitability and flexibility.

This reflects a broader trend of AI developers leveraging private equity portfolios as distribution channels to embed technology into corporate ecosystems. The move highlights the growing role of venture capital in scaling AI solutions amid rising enterprise demand.