The Converge 2 startup accelerator program by OpenAI did in fact occur, as confirmed by sources familiar with the program, despite the lack of public information surrounding it. TechCrunch has also verified that startups in the cohort received funding from the Open AI Startup Fund.
Converge 2 stands out in the tech industry as an anomaly in terms of PR practices. Typically, accelerator programs announce the startups they accept or graduate from their programs to promote their success. However, for months, there was uncertainty about whether the Converge 2 program took place, with individuals expressing confusion on a tech forum. The lack of any official announcements or updates from OpenAI added to the mystery surrounding Converge 2.
Unlike its predecessor, Converge I, which followed a standard accelerator program format, Converge 2 did not have any public communication regarding the startups involved. Despite requests for information, OpenAI remained silent on the matter, leaving founders and observers to speculate about the program’s outcomes.
The lack of transparency regarding the Converge 2 program has raised questions about OpenAI’s communication strategy and the reasons behind their decision to not disclose the cohort graduates. Speculation about the nature of the program and the companies involved has fueled interest in OpenAI’s activities, especially as the company seeks additional funding and undergoes leadership changes.
While the specifics of the Converge 2 program remain elusive, it is believed that participating companies gain access to OpenAI’s researchers and advanced technology, potentially under strict NDAs. This aligns with OpenAI’s reputation for utilizing NDAs to protect proprietary information, as highlighted in recent reports by Vox.
