Anthropic, an artificial intelligence company, has announced the creation of a 'public benefit fund,' committing 5% of its shares to support societal good initiatives. The fund, structured as a wholly-owned entity, will have the potential to grow as the company’s value increases, with an option for an additional 2% contribution. Possible uses include large donations to traditional nonprofits or direct distributions to specific populations.

The company’s decision comes amid growing concerns over AI’s impact on the job market, with Anthropic already investing $200 million in studying this issue. However, given the rapid pace of AI progress, the fund will be flexible enough to explore 'bolder approaches.' This move could potentially mitigate the negative public sentiment surrounding AI, as CEO Dario Amodei has acknowledged it as a 'crisis of trust.'

The question remains: who will decide which public benefits are prioritised? Anthropic has promised to share more information about the structure and governance of the fund in the coming months. For now, the AI industry watches with interest as one of its leading companies steps up to support societal good.