The Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers (ICANN) has announced the opening of the Applicant Support Program (ASP) for the New Generic Top-Level Domains (gTLD) Program: Next Round. This initiative will allow the introduction of new gTLDs, including those longer than three characters and in non-Latin scripts, into the Internet's domain name space. Set to launch in 2026, it marks the first opportunity since 2012 for organizations to secure a gTLD, particularly benefiting lesser-resourced entities.
Top-level domains (TLDs), such as .com and .org, are integral to classifying the purpose of domain names. As the Internet has evolved, the number of TLDs has expanded significantly, reflecting the diverse needs of billions of users globally. ICANN recognizes that applying for a gTLD can be prohibitively expensive for many organizations. The ASP aims to make the application process and associated fees more accessible, offering supported applicants pro bono services, training, and a substantial reduction in evaluation fees.
According to Samiran Gupta, ICANN's Vice President of Stakeholder Engagement, the New gTLD Program: Next Round will empower businesses and communities to apply for TLDs that resonate with their culture and identity. The program underscores ICANN's commitment to fostering innovation and consumer choice in the domain industry.
Eligibility for the ASP requires applicants to demonstrate financial need and viability, falling into specific categories such as nonprofits, intergovernmental organizations, and small businesses from less-developed economies. The application window will remain open for 12 months, encouraging early submissions to maximize available resources.