Elon Musk has taken the stand in a closely watched trial against OpenAI, accusing the artificial intelligence company of abandoning its original nonprofit mission and betraying both its founders and the public.
Testifying on Tuesday, Musk described the lawsuit as a defence of charitable integrity, arguing that OpenAI’s transformation into a profit-driven entity undermines the principles on which it was founded.
“If we make it OK to loot a charity, the entire foundation of charitable giving in America will be destroyed,” Musk told the court. “That’s my concern.”
Musk, who co-founded OpenAI in 2015 alongside Sam Altman and Greg Brockman, said the organisation was intended to serve humanity rather than generate profit. He claimed he personally provided early funding, recruited key personnel, and helped shape its vision as a non-profit research lab.
“I came up with the idea, the name, recruited the key people, taught them everything I know, provided all of the initial funding,” he testified.
The lawsuit targets OpenAI, its Chief Executive Sam Altman, and President Greg Brockman, alleging breach of charitable trust and unjust enrichment. Musk is seeking $150 billion in damages and is also pushing for structural changes, including reverting OpenAI to nonprofit status and removing its top leadership.
In response, OpenAI’s legal team argued that Musk himself supported the company’s shift toward a for-profit structure, claiming it was necessary to attract investment and remain competitive in the rapidly evolving AI sector. They also alleged Musk’s actions were driven by personal ambition, including a desire to lead the organisation.
Lawyers for OpenAI said the transition helped the company secure major funding, including a significant investment from Microsoft, and enabled it to scale its computing infrastructure and retain top researchers.
The trial also featured sharp exchanges over Musk’s public statements on social media, prompting the judge to caution him against influencing proceedings outside court. Musk later agreed to limit his online commentary during the trial.
The case has drawn wide attention across the tech industry, highlighting deep divisions over the governance of artificial intelligence and the balance between public benefit and commercial growth.
OpenAI’s evolution—from a nonprofit research initiative to a multi-billion-dollar company valued at over $850 billion—now sits at the centre of a legal and ideological battle that could shape the future of AI development.
Musk is expected to continue his testimony as the trial proceeds, with further appearances from Altman and Microsoft executives anticipated in the coming days.
