The U.S. federal government is set to become one of the most extensive institutional users of generative AI through a newly announced agreement between OpenAI and the General Services Administration. As part of this initiative, all agencies within the executive branch will receive access to ChatGPT Enterprise for a nominal fee of $1 per agency for the next twelve months.

This access includes OpenAI’s most advanced models as well as additional features such as Deep Research and Advanced Voice Mode, which will be made available at no added cost during an initial 60-day period.

Intended to expand the use of AI across government operations under conditions designed to meet strict requirements around privacy, security, and compliance.

The agreement is part of the “OpenAI for Government” program, which was formally introduced in June 2025.

The timing of the rollout corresponds with recent federal efforts to expand the use of AI across government systems. Agencies have been directed to adopt emerging technologies more efficiently while maintaining clear oversight and accountability.

Why It Matters: By making ChatGPT Enterprise widely available, the government now has a way to test how these tools perform in real-world settings. It also shows how quickly the gap is closing between what’s available to private companies and what’s being used in government. The deal gives OpenAI a head start in shaping how AI tools are introduced and regulated in the public sector.

• Enterprise-Grade Access for Every Agency: The offer covers all agencies under the executive branch, providing them with access to ChatGPT Enterprise for just $1 per year. Each agency will be able to use the same models currently available to commercial clients. For the first sixty days, OpenAI is also enabling unrestricted access to tools that support longer queries and more interactive sessions.

• Training That Accounts for Scale and Risk: To support such a broad rollout, OpenAI is building training into the package. Federal workers will have access to guided onboarding, live and recorded learning sessions, and a private user community for knowledge sharing. For agencies with more complex needs, OpenAI is working with consulting firms that specialize in federal deployment to assist with technical setup and security reviews.

• Security Controls That Fit Government Use: The version of ChatGPT provided to agencies will follow the same privacy protections used in enterprise deployments. OpenAI does not use inputs or outputs from enterprise clients to improve its models. The platform has been cleared for use through the GSA’s Authority to Use process, which requires the vendor to meet federal standards for data protection and operational security.

• A Pricing Decision That Raises the Stakes: OpenAI’s pricing strategy places pressure on competitors. Google and Anthropic were also approved as official vendors this week, but they have not announced similar pricing or access terms. All three companies are now listed under the government’s Multiple Award Schedule, which streamlines procurement.

• Policy and Timing Are Closely Linked: The rollout comes just after the release of the Trump administration’s AI Action Plan. The plan calls for faster data center construction, stronger U.S. infrastructure, and more domestic control over foundational models. At the same time, a new executive order prohibits agencies from using models that show political bias. OpenAI’s messaging has focused on neutrality and transparency, aligning its rollout with current priorities.

Go Deeper -> Providing ChatGPT to the entire U.S. federal workforce – OpenAI

OpenAI is giving ChatGPT to the government for $1 – CNBC

OpenAI is practically giving ChatGPT to the government for free – TechCrunch