The Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers (ICANN) is progressing toward the next round of the New Generic Top-Level Domain (gTLD) Program, scheduled to commence in April 2026.
The next round of the new gTLD program presents an opportunity for brands, individuals, and tech entrepreneurs to establish their own unique slice of the internet. No longer confined to .com or .com.au, businesses and individuals will be able to register their own branded domain names, offering greater control, brand recognition, and security. This shift enables organizations to create a stronger online presence, improve search visibility, and reduce the risk of phishing scams and brand impersonation.
For businesses, branded TLDs offer a chance to stand out in crowded markets, while individuals can use them for personal branding and unique online identities. The marketing around the new gTLD is that is provides brands with the ability to align a web address with a brand’s identity creates a more memorable and trusted experience for users. As the competition to secure branded web spaces intensifies, adopters have the chance to gain a crucial edge in digital branding, intellectual property protection, and online security.
Program Timeline and Key Dates:
- Applicant Support Program (ASP): The ASP application submission period opened on 19 November 2024 and will close on 19 November 2025. This program offers financial and non-financial assistance to eligible applicants facing financial and resource constraints. Eligible applicants may receive a 75–85% reduction in evaluation fees, along with access to pro bono services, training, and other resources. Entities such as nonprofits, intergovernmental organizations, indigenous/tribal peoples’ organizations, and small businesses from less-developed economies may qualify for support.
- Registry Service Provider (RSP) Evaluation Program: The RSP Pre-Evaluation application submission period opened on 19 November 2024 and will close on 20 May 2025. An additional evaluation period will coincide with the gTLD application submission period. This program aims to streamline the technical evaluation process for new gTLD applications.
- New gTLD Application Submission Period: Expected to open in April 2026 for a duration of 12 to 15 weeks.
Application Evaluation Fee:
The anticipated evaluation fee for new gTLD applications is set at USD $227,000, subject to change. Applicants should also be prepared for standard operational fees included in the Registry Agreement and ongoing financial and technical obligations.
Recent Developments:
- New gTLD Program Website: In May 2024, ICANN launched a dedicated website for the New gTLD Program, serving as a comprehensive resource for current, past, and future program information. The site includes details on timelines, the ASP, and the RSP Evaluation Program.
- Program Implementation: ICANN has established a new governance model and leadership team to oversee the implementation of the next round. Significant progress has been made in developing the Applicant Guidebook and implementing the ASP and RSP Evaluation Program.
Thinking of applying for your own branded gTLD?
Brandsec offers end-to-end support for brands interested in the next round of new gTLDs. Our comprehensive service includes business case analysis to assess eligibility and strategic value, competition analysis to evaluate market positioning, and full application coordination. We manage the entire submission process, ensuring compliance with ICANN requirements and deadlines. Additionally, Brandsec provides expert guidance on Registrar and Registry Services, helping brands maximize the value of their new TLD while mitigating risks. Our streamlined approach ensures a smooth, efficient path from concept to completion.
About brandsec
brandsec is a team of highly experienced domain name management and online brand protection experts. We provide corporate domain name management and brand enforcement services, helping brands eliminate phishing platforms across the internet. Supporting some of the largest brands in the region, we offer innovative solutions to combat threats across multiple industries.
