Because if they wanted to keep their compute credits that they desperately need to achieve their mission, they cannot be randomly pissing off their biggest collaborators. Just because the board doesn't legally _need_ to work with their for-profit investors, doesn't mean they shouldn't.

Had they played this like adults they could have seen through a smooth transition and not be looking at a total collapse like they are now.

Because he who controls the spice controls the universe.

(By spice I mean money here for those unfamiliar with the reference)