Microsoft and OpenAI announced they are offering up to $10 million ($2.5 million in cash plus $2.5 million in “software and corporate credits” from each) to a select group of media companies, to try out AI tools in the newsroom.
The first round of financing is underway News day, The Minnesota Star Tribune, The Philadelphia InquirerChicago Public Media and The Seattle Times.
These offices will receive a stipend to hire a two-year fellow who will work on the development and implementation of AI tools with Microsoft Azure and OpenAI credits. The program is part of a collaboration between Microsoft, OpenAI and the Lenfest Institute for Journalism aimed at promoting local media.
“While nothing will replace the central role of reporters, we believe AI technology can help research, investigate, distribute and monetize important journalism,” Tom Rubin, head of intellectual property and content at OpenAI, said in the press release.
Microsoft and OpenAI will provide grants to three additional media organizations at a later date. AI applications the media companies will explore include using the technology for transcription, content summaries and creating a “conversational” search tool for archives.