Models & Releases

ValehartProject's Goblin Fund: Self-funded AI research aids communities

8-month-old project funds AI community work through art revival sales

Deep Dive

ValehartProject, an independent AI research effort, has been operating for 8 months with no external funding. The founder funds all work through a separate art/history revival business that uses generative AI to produce affordable heirlooms and preservation pieces. While many are cautious about generative art, the project leverages it for research and making family artifacts accessible.

A new "Goblin" project is now dedicated to fully funding Valehart's AI research going forward. The Goblin items combine humor with tangible take-home products, though they are currently only available in Australia (AU). The founder emphasizes this is not a request for money or sponsorship, but a showcase of how independent researchers can create community impact using AI tools.

Key Points
  • Self-funded AI research project running for 8 months with no external sponsorship
  • Funds generated via generative art business for art/history revival, making heirlooms affordable
  • New Goblin project will fully fund future research, currently AU-only

Why It Matters

Demonstrates sustainable, independent AI research funded by creative commercial projects, not big tech.