Three Gen Z researchers left OpenAI to start their own company, Applied Compute, which uses Chinese open-source models to help companies "nurture" their own AI systems. In less than 18 months, the company achieved an annualized revenue of $100 million and a valuation of $3.25 billion. Microsoft, Shopify, and DoorDash are among its clients. Founded by three researchers who left OpenAI, the company helps companies "nurture" their own AI systems using Chinese open-source models.