The Applicant Support Program (ASP) was developed as part of ICANN's New Generic Top-Level Domains (gTLD) Program. The ASP is intended to make applying for a new gTLD or operating a registry more accessible to applicants who would be otherwise unable due to financial and resource constraints. The ASP is for gTLD applicants seeking financial and non-financial support.
The ASP application process is separate from the New gTLD Program application, occurring before the application submission period for the New gTLD Program: Next Round begins. This timing, as noted below, ensures that support applicants have sufficient time to apply before the opening of the application submission period for new gTLDs.
Please consult the table of key dates below:
| Date | Description |
|---|---|
| Expected to open Q4 2024 | The ASP application submission period begins. |
| Expected to close Q4 2025 | The application submission period for ASP closes; no additional ASP applications will be accepted for this round. ICANN org retains the option to modify the ASP application submission period and will communicate the change accordingly. |
| Expected to open April 2026 | The New gTLD Program: Next Round application submission period opens. |
Applicants will be able to apply to the ASP beginning in Q4 2024 through Q4 2025 (exact dates to be provided soon).
Applicants that qualify for support will be eligible for financial and non-financial assistance to apply for a gTLD including:
- Reduced gTLD base application and evaluation fees (between 50%-85% reduction).
- Access to volunteer professional services, training, and other resources.
Important Note: Qualifying for support via the ASP does not equate to qualifying for a gTLD. Qualified supported applicants must also apply for a gTLD in Q2 2026 and be evaluated according to the criteria in the gTLD Program: Next Round Applicant Guidebook.
Applicants that would like more information about how to apply are encouraged to review the draft ASP Handbook. The handbook provides a guide to applying for support and includes detailed information on ASP application deadlines, criteria, processes, and evaluation.