IBM announced on Thursday a partnership with OpenAI, aiming to expand the reach of OpenAI's models and tools to more enterprise customers. This collaboration will provide OpenAI with an additional channel to engage with large global companies through IBM's consulting business.
Under the agreement, IBM will create a dedicated OpenAI practice within IBM Consulting. The company plans to train and certify tens of thousands of its existing consultants on OpenAI's technologies, focusing on areas such as OpenAI's Codex, API, and cybersecurity, over the coming months. IBM will also establish a group of specialised "Forward Deployed Experts" through OpenAI's Partner Network.
The partnership will involve integrating OpenAI's latest models, including GPT-5.6, Codex, and ChatGPT Work, into IBM Consulting Advantage. This platform is designed to assist clients in deploying AI across their core business operations. IBM and OpenAI will also jointly market AI offerings and develop industry-specific solutions for sectors including financial services, government, telecommunications, and retail.
This collaboration follows a previous partnership in June between IBM and OpenAI for the cybersecurity-focused OpenAI Daybreak Cyber Partner Program. The new deal expands this relationship by integrating OpenAI's AI models with IBM Autonomous Security, IBM's multi-agent-powered cybersecurity service.