ICANN Announcements

Read ICANN Announcements to stay informed of the latest policymaking activities, regional events, and more.

ICANN Launches New Online Information Center for New Generic Top-Level Domains

19 September 2011

ICANN has just launched a new "micro-site" as the online home for information about the New Generic Top-Level Domain (New gTLDs) Program.

You can access the site from a button on the home page of ICANN.ORG, or go directly to http://newgtlds.icann.org/.

Resources for Everyone

The micro-site is designed to help everyone interested in new gTLDs, regardless of their level of knowledge.

  • Unfamiliar with ICANN and domain names?

  • You can find basic material under the "About" tab.

  • Wondering whether your organization should apply to operate a new gTLD?

  • You will find helpful information under the "Applicants" tab. It offers a wide range of educational materials, including interviews with CEOs of current Internet registries about what you’ll need to know, and presentations on how to complete the application form.

  • Seeking financial or in-kind assistance?

  • Potential applicants, including those in developing economies, can learn about financial and non-financial assistance through the Applicant Support Program.

  • What is the status of your gTLD application?

  • Beginning in January 2012, you can track the progress of your application under the "Program Status" tab. This is where all new gTLDs that have been applied for will be publicly posted.

  • Are you a journalist? Or just looking for the latest news?

  • Check out the "Announcements & Media" to see the latest new gTLD-related developments, and learn about upcoming events.

If you intend to apply for a new gTLD, the Applicant Guidebook and access to the TLD Application System (TAS) are available from any page on the micro-site.

This is just the beginning! Much more information and online tools are just a click away at http://newgtlds.icann.org/.

Multilingual Commitment

The new site is not solely for English speakers. Many new gTLD-related resources are available in other languages, including Fact Sheets and presentations, with many more translations coming.

All important program materials will continue to be posted in six UN languages.

Applicant Support Program

Seeking to ensure that the New gTLD Program is inclusive and accessible to all parts of the world, the ICANN community has created a sustainable approach to providing support to applicants, particularly those from developing economies as they apply for and operate new gTLDs. The Applicant Support Program will provide financial and non-financial support to qualified applicants registered or residing in developing countries, and potentially to others.

Raising Global Awareness

ICANN is in the midst of a major campaign to raise awareness around the world about the impact and possibilities of new gTLDs. The new site represents a foundational expression of the campaign. Many more new articles, tools, and materials will be made available in the coming days and weeks. To stay abreast of the latest developments related to new gTLDs, from now on, your most up-to-date, authoritative, and comprehensive resource is http://newgtlds.icann.org/.