OpenAI IPO: How to Invest Before It Lists

investing in openai ipo

You can invest in OpenAI before its IPO by buying pre-IPO shares through accredited investor platforms like EquityZen. Alternatively, consider funds such as the Fundrise Innovation Fund or ARK Venture Fund that offer indirect exposure. Investing in key partners Microsoft and NVIDIA also provides a way to benefit from OpenAI’s growth. The company’s partnerships and rapid valuation increase make these options viable before the IPO, expected as early as late 2026. For a deeper understanding, keep exploring these investment approaches and their timelines.

OpenAI’s Growth and Valuation Milestones

Although OpenAI started as a nonprofit, its rapid growth and innovation have considerably increased its market value, making it a key player in the AI industry.

By October 2025, OpenAI’s valuation soared to $500 billion, fueled by its artificial intelligence advancements and a user base exceeding 700 million weekly. Revenue surpassed $12 billion annually, reflecting strong market demand.

A major partnership with NVIDIA secured 10 gigawatts of data center capacity and a $100 billion investment, supporting further growth.

Preparing for its IPO, OpenAI restructured into a public benefit corporation, aiming to balance innovation with public interest in its next phase.

Ways to Invest in OpenAI Before the IPO

How can you invest in OpenAI before its anticipated IPO?

If you’re an accredited investor, you can purchase pre-IPO stock through platforms like EquityZen, connecting with current shareholders seeking liquidity.

For broader access, investment funds such as the Fundrise Innovation Fund offer opportunities starting at $10 via special-purpose vehicles.

The ARK Venture Fund also holds a significant OpenAI stake, providing indirect investment exposure despite its management fee.

Additionally, you can consider indirect investments by buying shares in Microsoft or NVIDIA, both major OpenAI investors.

With a projected valuation near $1 trillion and annual revenue expected to reach $11.6 billion by 2025, these options offer varied paths to participate before the OpenAI IPO.

Strategic Partnerships Enhancing OpenAI’s Market Position

Investing in OpenAI before its IPO offers several options, but understanding the company’s strategic partnerships helps explain why it holds such strong market potential.

OpenAI’s collaboration with Microsoft, which includes a $13.8 billion investment, boosts its valuation and market position through integration in Bing and Office 365.

NVIDIA’s commitment of up to $100 billion in funding supports essential AI development.

These partnerships attract enterprise customers and increase annualized revenue, making OpenAI appealing for investors.

Key benefits include:

  • Access to cutting-edge GPU resources
  • Strengthened cloud services via Azure
  • Rapid user growth and revenue
  • Long-term competitive advantage

Other AI Investments to Consider for Exposure

Since OpenAI remains a private company, you can gain AI exposure through several alternative investments that include public companies and specialized funds.

Microsoft, with a 27% stake in OpenAI, offers indirect investment opportunities. NVIDIA and Alphabet also provide AI exposure through their advancements in infrastructure and applications.

AI-focused ETFs like Roundhill’s CHAT and Global X’s BOTZ offer diversified portfolios including OpenAI partners.

For direct exposure to private companies, platforms like EquityZen connect accredited investors with existing shareholders.

These options allow you to access AI’s growth potential without waiting for OpenAI’s public listing.

Timeline and Prospects for OpenAI’s Public Offering

Although OpenAI has remained a private company until now, its initial public offering (IPO) is expected as early as late 2026, marking a significant milestone for investors and the AI industry.

CEO Sam Altman plans to convert OpenAI to a for-profit model to raise capital, targeting $60 billion or more. The company’s valuation may reach $1 trillion, reflecting rapid growth in artificial intelligence.

You should note:

  • IPO could open up new investment opportunities
  • Valuation jumped to $500 billion by 2025
  • Share price expected at least $100
  • Capital raised fuels AI infrastructure growth

This IPO will shape your access to OpenAI’s future.

Frequently Asked Questions

How to Invest in Openai Before IPO?

You can explore OpenAI investment strategies through pre-IPO opportunities on crowdfunding platforms or venture capital funds. Embrace early stage investing, consider tech stock trends, AI market growth, and diversify your portfolio while evaluating investment risks and stock valuation methods.

How to Buy IPO Shares Before Listing?

You can buy IPO shares before listing through investment platforms offering pre IPO shares, venture capital, or private equity. Use IPO investing strategies, crowdfunding options, market research, and consult financial advisors to manage stock options and investment risks confidently.

Can You Invest in a Company Before Its IPO?

You can invest before an IPO through pre-IPO investments like private equity, venture capital, or secondary markets. Explore private placements, angel investors, or equity crowdfunding platforms to diversify your startup funding and freedom-focused investment strategies.

Who Owns 49% of Openai?

You’ll find Microsoft and other key investors collectively own 49% of OpenAI, reflecting the OpenAI ownership structure shaped by private equity investments and venture capital firms, essential for understanding OpenAI equity distribution and future AI investments.

Agatha Greer
Agatha is our business/finance specialist. She left her corporate job in Finance after 12 years so she could pursue her dream - that of being a journalist. Besides her job, Agatha is a dedicated mother of two who likes to travel and to spend time with her family.