OpenAI invited a group of influencers to the luxury resort Wildflower Farms in the Hudson Valley, New York. During the past weekend, many content creators have already shared videos of that "summer camp" on social media platforms. The 140-acre estate, which usually costs over $2,000 per night for a weekend stay, is shaded by trees, with warm, tavern-style lighting illuminating a long wooden table that can seat about 30 people. At the end of the table, the OpenAI logo glowed softly, turning the entire dinner into a brand promotional video.

According to the content released by the participants, the schedule was very "rural": eating, attending classes on OpenAI's latest tools, doing outdoor activities, and even participating in an experience with a beekeeper. Everyone left with a canvas bag and a jar of honey featuring the OpenAI logo. OpenAI told Business Insider that this was an educational event related to its recently launched ChatGPT Work, and it was part of a larger plan to promote the practical applications of its products through creators.

However, the idyllic scene quickly backfired. On social media, there were overwhelming criticisms: How could a company that operates multiple high-energy, high-water consumption data centers afford to flatter influencers at a nature-themed resort? A Reddit user wrote, "This is the correct use of the word 'dystopia'." More people on X, Reddit, TikTok, and Instagram accused OpenAI of "greenwashing"—using marketing to cover up its environmentally unfriendly reality. Others criticized the creators for not mentioning the environmental cost of the technology when they were promoting AI. Journalist Taylor Lorenz pointed out on X that the participants were being collectively boycotted.

Business Insider tried to contact several creators, but none responded to comments. OpenAI also refused to explain whether the attendees received payment, who covered their travel and accommodation, or if they were required to post. Grace McCarrick, an influencer, did speak openly in a video: "My moral standards were not crossed, and I am extremely excited about AI and the opportunities it brings to humanity. That's it."