OpenAI wants to get the government hooked on ChatGPT

Fast Company Tech

by Rebecca Heilweil

February 26, 2026

AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary

OpenAI has become a leading provider of artificial intelligence (AI) solutions for the U.S. government, with 37 federal agencies and approximately 80,000 government employees utilizing its technology. This strategic partnership places OpenAI at the forefront of competition among top AI companies aiming to secure a foothold in the government sector. While financial gains may not be the primary driver, the collaboration aligns closely with OpenAI’s mission as a public benefit corporation—to ensure that advanced AI technologies like Artificial General Intelligence (AGI) benefit all humanity. By offering ChatGPT and other tools at significant discounts or even for free, OpenAI is addressing the unique challenges of government procurement processes, which are often slow to adopt new technologies due to stringent cybersecurity requirements and budget constraints. The decision to work with the U.S. government is deeply mission-driven. OpenAI believes that involving the government in AI development and deployment is crucial for understanding and managing the technology’s potential societal impact. Federal agencies play a critical role in delivering citizen services, such as food stamp administration, housing support, and tax processing, where AI can enhance efficiency and effectiveness. By making its tools accessible to these agencies, OpenAI aims to demonstrate how AI can transform public service delivery while ensuring compliance with federal security standards. Despite the logistical hurdles, including complex procurement processes and potential political backlash, OpenAI is committed to fostering trust and transparency in its government partnerships. The company’s focus on mission alignment over short-term financial gains underscores its belief that AI adoption by the government is essential for broader societal benefit. As OpenAI continues to expand its offerings, such as hosting AI models on a government-approved cloud, it aims to overcome technical and regulatory barriers, paving the way for wider implementation across federal agencies. This progress highlights the potential of AI to revolutionize public services while addressing critical challenges faced by governments worldwide. For readers interested in design and technology, OpenAI’s efforts with the U.S. government offer insights into how cutting-edge AI solutions can be tailored to meet the unique needs of large, complex organizations. The company’s approach not only addresses immediate challenges like budget constraints and slow adoption but also sets a precedent for ethical and responsible AI deployment on a grand scale. By prioritizing mission alignment over profit, OpenAI demonstrates how design thinking—focusing on user-centric solutions and long-term societal impact—can drive innovation in government services and public trust in emerging technologies.

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Originally published on Fast Company Tech on 2/26/2026