What is the ICANN ASP program?

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The ICANN Applicant Support Program (ASP) is an initiative within the New Generic Top-Level Domains (gTLD) Program: Next Round. Its primary goal is to make the application process for new gTLDs and the operation of a registry more accessible to entities that might otherwise be unable to participate due to financial and resource limitations.

Here's a breakdown of the key aspects of the ASP:

Purpose:

  • To foster a more diverse and inclusive New gTLD Program by supporting applicants who face financial and resource constraints.
  • To enable new communities, geographies, and voices to be represented in the Domain Name System (DNS).
  • To provide opportunities for innovation and competition within the domain name space.

Support Offered:

The ASP provides both financial and non-financial assistance to qualified applicants. This includes:

  • Significant reduction in New gTLD Program evaluation fees: Supported applicants may receive a 75-85% reduction in these fees.
  • Access to an Applicant Counselor: This counselor provides guidance on the gTLD application process and helps identify relevant resources.
  • Access to pro bono services: ICANN is working to connect supported applicants with service providers offering voluntary professional services.
  • Training and other resources: The program aims to equip applicants with the knowledge and tools needed throughout the application, contracting, delegation, and registry operation phases.

Eligibility:

To qualify for the ASP, applicants must demonstrate financial need and financial viability and fall into at least one of the following categories:

  • Non-profits, charities, or equivalent organizations.
  • Intergovernmental organizations (IGOs).
  • Organizations representing Indigenous/Tribal Peoples.
  • Social impact or public benefit micro- or small-sized businesses.
  • Micro- or small-sized businesses from a less-developed economy (as defined by the United Nations).

Application Process:

  • The ASP application process is separate from the New gTLD Program application.
  • The application submission period for the current round of the ASP began on November 19, 2024, and is expected to close on November 19, 2025.
  • Applicants are encouraged to apply early.
  • Applications are evaluated based on financial need, financial viability, and eligible entity status, among other criteria.
  • A comprehensive guide to the application and evaluation process is available in the ASP Handbook.

Important Considerations:

  • Qualifying for ASP support does not guarantee qualification for a gTLD. Applicants must still meet all the requirements of the New gTLD Program.
  • Operating a gTLD registry requires significant ongoing operational, technical, and financial resources, even with the support provided by the ASP.

In summary, the ICANN ASP program is a crucial initiative designed to broaden participation in the New gTLD Program by offering financial and non-financial support to eligible organizations facing resource limitations. This aims to foster a more diverse and representative internet landscape.