ICANN Launches Applicant Support Program (ASP) for New gTLD Applicants

ICANN has officially opened the application phase for its Applicant Support Program (ASP), designed to provide financial and non-financial assistance to eligible applicants seeking to register new generic Top-Level Domains (gTLDs).

Application Window for New gTLDs

The second application round for new gTLDs, after its 2012 debut, is expected to open briefly in Q2 2026. Submission guidelines will be outlined in the Applicant Guidebook (AGB), slated for release in May 2025. The application fees are projected to range from US$208,000 to US$293,000 (approximately €199,000–€280,000).

Given these high costs, ICANN’s ASP aims to lower barriers, making the program accessible to a broader pool of applicants.

Who Can Apply for ASP?

Eligible applicants include:

1. Nonprofits, charities, or equivalent organizations

2. Intergovernmental organizations (IGOs)

3. Indigenous or tribal peoples’ organizations

4. Social impact or public benefit micro- or small-sized businesses

5. Micro- or small-sized businesses from less-developed economies

Notably, nonprofits defined under § 52 AO (Abgabenordnung) in Germany stand to benefit significantly.

Key Benefits of ASP

Financial Support:

• 75–85% reduction in evaluation fees

• Bid credit during contention resolution

• Reduced registry agreement fees

Non-Financial Support:

• Training materials for gTLD application and registry operation

• Capacity development programs

• Application advisory services

• Access to a directory of professional TLD service providers

ASP funding is limited to 40–45 applicants, emphasizing the need for early submission. Applications will be reviewed within 12–16 weeks of submission.

Timeline

The ASP application window is open until 19 November 2025, allowing interested parties ample time to apply and secure support ahead of the gTLD application phase. Early applicants benefit most, as they can utilize ASP resources before the official application window opens.

Takeaway

ICANN’s ASP represents a vital opportunity for smaller or resource-limited organizations to participate in shaping the internet’s future. Potential applicants should act swiftly to maximize their chances of receiving support.