Frequently Asked Questions: ICANN's Emergency Assistance Program for Continued Internet Access
Expression of Interest
Why is ICANN launching this new program?
The Emergency Assistance Program for Continued Internet Access is intended to have a positive impact on the security, stability, and resiliency of the Internet and the management of the unique identifiers. This program will be made available to maintain accessibility when operators or other relevant actors might otherwise not have the resources to do so.
Does ICANN have any previous experience in this space, and has it contributed to efforts to address continued Internet access issues?
Yes, in April 2022, the Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers (ICANN) contributed $1 million in emergency financial support to the Emergency Telecommunications Cluster (ETC) for continued Internet access during the ongoing crisis in Ukraine.
Are organizations involved in the ICANN community eligible to submit a proposal?
Yes, if the organization meets the program eligibility requirements.
Can an organization submit more than one proposal to this program?
No.
Can organizations partner with other organizations to submit a proposal?
Yes.
Can I submit a proposal after the closing of the call for Expression of Interest?
No. Note of the submission deadline on the Emergency Assistance Program page.
Selection and Funding
How will organizations be selected?
The ICANN organization (org) will select one or more third-party emergency support organization(s) with the required capabilities and a proven track record in addressing Internet access crises at the national, regional and global level. As emergencies arise where ICANN could provide support, and subject to availability of funds, the ICANN org will coordinate with the selected organization(s) to identify if a monetary contribution would be appropriate in the specific instance.
The program's total annual (ICANN's Fiscal Year cycle) contributions shall not exceed USD 1 million.
What is a qualifying emergency event under this program?
Qualifying events are large-scale natural or man-made disasters that have resulted in disruptions to Internet access. According to the U.N. Office for Disaster Risk Reduction Relief, a large-scale disaster is a type of disaster affecting a society that requires national or international assistance. Eligible events may be new or protracted crises.
See answers to clarifying questions regarding the 2023 Expression of Interest process here.