OpenAI is evaluating a strategic move to sell AI data-center services—similar to a cloud infrastructure offering—to other businesses. This effort aims to create a new revenue channel to help defray the soaring costs associated with developing and operating ChatGPT. The concept drew inspiration from Amazon’s success leasing spare cloud capacity.
Why OpenAI Might Sell Infrastructure Services
Alleviating Massive Operating Costs
OpenAI has incurred immense expenses building AI-serving infrastructure, fueled by the need for cutting-edge chips and data centers. CFO Sarah Friar explained that renting out capacity could offset these costs, while reinforcing OpenAI’s own operational resilience.
Protecting Intellectual Property
Friar emphasized a strategic concern: relying solely on third-party infrastructure providers risks losing proprietary know-how in AI data-center operations. Offering services in-house instead secures this IP while earning revenue.
Strategic Infrastructure Moves & Partnerships
The Stargate Megaproject
OpenAI spearheads “Stargate,” a $500 billion AI infrastructure venture alongside SoftBank, Oracle, and other partners. Initially announced with a $100 billion launch, the project targets building massive data center capacity across the U.S., with OpenAI managing operations and SoftBank handling finances.
Landmark $30 Billion/Year Oracle Deal
As part of infrastructure expansion, OpenAI signed a $30 billion per year agreement with Oracle for 4.5 gigawatts of data-center capacity—an unprecedented scale that surpasses Oracle’s entire cloud business revenue. This deal, confirmed by both Oracle’s SEC filings and Sam Altman, underscores the magnitude of OpenAI’s compute needs. Business Today
Diversifying Across Cloud Providers
Beyond the Stargate project, OpenAI is working with multiple infrastructure partners. It has inked a $12 billion, five-year deal with CoreWeave, as well as agreements to use Google Cloud services and TPUs. These moves reduce reliance on Microsoft Azure and ensure scalability.
Potential Impacts of Selling Infrastructure
| Opportunity | Description |
|---|---|
| Revenue Diversification | Monetizing idle or future infrastructure generates new income streams. |
| IP Retention & Operational Control | Selling services in-house helps retain proprietary infrastructure expertise. |
| Market Leadership in AI Hosting | Positions OpenAI as an infrastructure provider, not just an AI software leader. |
| Industry Ripple Effects | Could set a precedent for other AI firms considering infrastructure leasing. |
Final Thoughts
OpenAI’s consideration of selling AI data-center services marks a strategic pivot toward revenue diversification, IP protection, and operational independence. Supported by landmark infrastructure deals—especially the $30 billion/year Oracle contract and Stargate project—this initiative could reshape how AI firms manage compute costs. If realized, it positions OpenAI not just as an AI innovator, but also as a heavyweight in infrastructure.
