Thailand and OpenAI Launch Accelerator for Local AI Startups

The OpenAI x MHESI AI Accelerator is OpenAI’s first public-private partnership with the Thai government focused on local startups. It could help Thailand convert its growing AI adoption into practical products, skilled employment, investment opportunities and solutions addressing healthcare, education and an ageing population. How the Programme Works Duration: Eight weeks Participants: Ten Thai startups Healthcare and wellness: Five startups Education: Five startups Support: OpenAI models, technical guidance, mentors and development resources Thai partners: National Innovation Agency, Mahidol University and Techsauce Objective: Move products from prototype and testing to trusted real-world implementation Thailand’s Growing AI Adoption OpenAI says Thailand ranks among the top 20 countries globally for weekly active ChatGPT users. Weekly Codex usage in Thailand has reportedly grown more than 350-fold since the beginning of 2026, also placing the country among its top 20 markets.

Participating startups will test their products with users, strengthen safeguards, refine their business models and prepare for broader implementation. The programme’s longer-term impact will depend on whether prototypes secure customers, investment and sustained adoption after the accelerator ends.