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Databricks, Perplexity co-founder pledges $100M on new fund for AI researchers

Andy Konwinski, co-founder of Databricks and Perplexity, has launched the Laude Institute with a $100 million personal pledge to support AI research, structured as a fund offering grants. The institute aims to establish an AI Systems Lab at UC Berkeley, focusing on beneficial outcomes in AI development. Its mission is to advance research free from commercial pressures, despite contrasting with models like OpenAI. The lab is set to open in 2027.

Key points

  • Andy Konwinski announced the formation of Laude Institute to support AI research with a $100 million personal investment.
  • The institute will function like a grant fund, not just a research lab.
  • The first grant is a $3 million annual commitment for five years to UC Berkeley's new AI Systems Lab, led by Ion Stoica.
  • Konwinski's vision emphasizes research that benefits society while reducing commercial influences in AI development.
  • The institute is structured as a nonprofit with commercial aspects, dividing funding into 'Slingshots' (early-stage) and 'Moonshots' (long-term challenges).
  • Laude Institute is seeking additional funding from other successful technologists to broaden its impact.

Why it matters

  • This initiative highlights the ongoing trend of tech leaders funding nonprofit research to direct AI development positively, amidst concerns of commercialization overshadowing ethical considerations.
  • It parallels the growth of AI startups and research institutes focused on specific beneficial applications, such as healthcare and civic discourse.
  • The $100 million pledge falls in line with the increasing investments in tech for societal advantages, reflecting a shift in some sectors toward responsible AI research.

Konwinski's Laude Institute represents a significant commitment to fostering independent AI research aimed at societal benefits, contrasting with more commercial approaches like those of OpenAI, and reflects broader trends in the tech industry towards ethical AI development and investment.