A startup fund backed by the renowned AI company OpenAI has successfully raised $15 million in a recent funding round. This latest capital injection aims to expand the fund's investments in promising AI-driven ventures.

The OpenAI Startup Fund, which operates as a distinct entity from its parent company, has secured the new funds through a special purpose vehicle (SPV) known as OpenAI Startup Fund SPV II, L.P. This marks the second time the fund has utilized an SPV to pool resources from investors, having previously raised $10 million through a similar structure.

The filing with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) reveals that the $15 million tranche was contributed by two unnamed investors. The fund's manager and sole partner, Ian Hathaway, was also mentioned in the documentation.

While OpenAI and the Startup Fund are technically separate entities, the fund faced scrutiny last year when it was discovered that Sam Altman, the CEO of OpenAI, had long maintained legal control over the fund's investments. Altman has since taken the step of transferring formal control to Hathaway, who previously worked as an investor at the venture capital firm Haystack.

Altman's focus has now shifted to his work at OpenAI and Worldcoin, another company he is involved with. The two entities are even considering a strategic partnership, as Worldcoin aims to expand its user base and solidify its position in the market.

The OpenAI Startup Fund's latest funding round underscores the growing interest and investment in AI-driven startups. As the field of artificial intelligence continues to evolve, this fund's ability to identify and support promising ventures could play a significant role in shaping the future of the industry.