The Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers (ICANN) has officially opened the application window for its Applicant Support Program (ASP) under the New Generic Top-Level Domains (gTLD) Program: Next Round. This initiative is designed to make gTLD registration more accessible to organizations that might otherwise face financial or resource constraints.
The ASP offers a range of benefits, including reduced evaluation fees, free training, and access to professional services. Eligible applicants include nonprofits, indigenous organizations, and small businesses operating as social enterprises or in less-developed economies. This program seeks to foster a more inclusive digital ecosystem by enabling diverse groups to create unique online identities.
Benefits for Small Businesses
ICANN’s ASP offers substantial advantages to small businesses:
- Cost Reduction: Eligible entities can receive significant fee reductions, making gTLD applications more affordable.
- Capacity Building: Training and expert guidance help small businesses navigate the application and long-term management of a gTLD.
- Enhanced Visibility: Custom gTLDs can bolster a business’s online branding and visibility in the global marketplace.
- Inclusivity: Businesses from less-developed economies have a chance to compete on a level playing field.
For instance, a small artisan group could register a domain like “.crafts” to showcase their unique offerings and establish a recognizable online identity.
What the Future Holds for Large-Scale Businesses
Advantages:
- Expanded Digital Landscape: More diverse gTLDs can lead to creative opportunities for large companies to establish partnerships with smaller players.
- Market Growth: Increased internet participation by small entities could drive traffic and innovation in the broader online ecosystem.
Disadvantages:
- Increased Competition: Large corporations may face competition from smaller businesses carving out unique online niches.
- Dilution of Market: The proliferation of gTLDs might reduce the prominence of existing TLDs, potentially affecting established brands.
- Operational Complexity: As the domain space becomes more saturated, managing intellectual property and monitoring brand misuse may become more challenging.
What Applicants Need to Know
ICANN emphasizes that operating a gTLD registry involves long-term commitments in operational, technical, and financial resources. While the ASP helps with initial application costs and training, it does not cover the full spectrum of expenses involved in running a domain registry.
Applicants are encouraged to use resources like the ASP Quick Start Guide and the Applicant Checklist and the ASP Application System Applicant User Guide to enable you to prepare a robust application. The submission period closes on 19 November 2025, with ICANN urging early applications to maximize available resources.
For more details, visit the Next Round ASP website. Queries can be sent to [email protected].
Empowering a Diverse Internet
By launching the ASP, ICANN reaffirms its commitment to a secure, inclusive, and innovative internet which telaHosting ultimately. This program not only supports small businesses in enhancing their digital presence but also contributes to a more competitive and diverse global online marketplace.
