The Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers (ICANN), the nonprofit organization managing the Domain Name System (DNS), has officially launched the Applicant Support Program (ASP) for the New Generic Top-Level Domains (gTLD) Program: Next Round. This initiative, aimed at underrepresented communities worldwide, offers organizations a unique opportunity to apply for and operate their own gTLDs with significantly reduced fees.
The New gTLD Program is a milestone in internet evolution, allowing for the creation of new domain name extensions beyond the traditional ones like .com, .net, or .org. This will be the first time since 2012 that organizations can secure new gTLDs, including those longer than three characters and in non-Latin scripts. The program represents a pivotal chance for Kenyan businesses, communities, and other entities to secure custom top-level domains tailored to their specific needs.
An Opportunity for Global and Local Digital Identity
“This is an opportunity for Kenyan businesses, communities, and others to apply for new top-level domains tailored to their community, culture, language, business, and customers,” says Pierre Dandjinou, ICANN Vice President Stakeholder Engagement, Africa. “A gTLD can be a branding opportunity for a business, but the commercial opportunities are endless, allowing businesses in countries, entire sectors, or niche markets to develop a unique label on the Internet.”
Top-level domains are the part of a web address that appears after the dot (e.g., in icann.org, the TLD is ‘org’). Initially, the internet had only a few TLDs like .com, .org, and .net. As the web evolved, the need for more generic TLDs grew to reflect the diverse purposes, cultures, and languages of its users.
With the New gTLD Program, businesses and organizations will have access to custom labels, unlocking opportunities for personalized branding, marketing, and community-building on the internet.
Making New gTLDs Accessible: Discounted Fees and More
One of the biggest challenges in securing a gTLD has been the high cost associated with the application and operational processes. ICANN’s ASP addresses this barrier by offering a 75-85% reduction in gTLD evaluation fees for eligible applicants.
In addition to discounted fees, successful applicants will gain access to:
- Pro bono service providers for guidance and expertise.
- Training sessions to navigate the process effectively.
- Other resources to support the application and operation of gTLDs.
“The ASP supports that commitment by paving the way for more entrepreneurs, small businesses, governments, and communities around the world to apply to operate a generic top-level domain of their own choosing,” adds Dandjinou.
Who Can Apply?
Eligibility for the program hinges on demonstrating both financial need and financial viability. Applicants must fall into at least one of the following categories:
- Nonprofits, charities, or their equivalents.
- Intergovernmental organizations (IGOs).
- Indigenous or tribal peoples’ organizations.
- Social impact or public benefit micro or small businesses.
- Micro or small businesses from less-developed economies.
Detailed evaluation criteria and eligibility requirements are outlined in Section 4: Applicant Eligibility and Evaluation Categories of the ASP Handbook, available on ICANN’s website.
Application Window and Process
The application process for the ASP is open for 12 months, and applications will be reviewed on an ongoing basis. ICANN encourages applicants to submit their applications early, as the first to qualify will receive immediate access to the available resources.
To apply or learn more about the program, visit the New gTLD Program ASP webpage.
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