Washington, D.C. – The American Journalism Project (AJP) announced a partnership with OpenAI to delve into ways that AI can support a thriving and innovative local news field. To facilitate this venture, OpenAI has pledged $5 million to support AJP’s expansion efforts and an additional $5 million in OpenAI API credits.

AI in journalism offers enhanced data analysis, personalized user experiences, and innovative information delivery. Yet, concerns arise over misinformation, bias, privacy, and copyright. 

“To ensure local journalism remains an essential pillar of our democracy, we need to be smart about the potential powers and pitfalls of new technology,” said Sarabeth Berman, CEO of AJP. She stressed the fundamental goal of the partnership, “we aim to promote ways for AI to enhance - rather than imperil - journalism.” 

AJP and its portfolio of local news organizations will use funds from OpenAI to experiment with the application of AI in journalism in several ways, including creating a technology and AI studio and making pilot investments in AI applications.

“We proudly support the American Journalism Project’s mission to strengthen our democracy by rebuilding the country’s local news sector. We look forward to working with AJP and its grantees, creating a valuable feedback loop, and exploring ways AI technology can bolster the work of local journalism,” Sam Altman, CEO of OpenAI, commented.