ICANN today announced commencement of the application period for new sponsored top level domains (sTLDs). ICANN is inviting applications from all part...

ICANN today announced commencement of the application period for new sponsored top level domains (sTLDs). ICANN is inviting applications from all parties wishing to apply for new sTLDs. Interested parties can view the Request for Proposal (RFP) on ICANN's website.

The RFP outlines the first step in the process for selection and implementation of new sTLDs. The RFP is the response to the resolution on new sTLD as directed by the ICANN Board, and it is an expedited round to ensure that new sTLDs will be available in 2004. The RFP is the initial part of the broad strategic initiative to enable new generic top level domains (gTLDs), as announced at the ICANN meeting in Tunisia.

Applicants will find that the RFP is divided into six parts. The first part provides applicants with explanatory notes on the process as well as an indication of the type of information requested by ICANN. The remaining parts constitute the application itself. The application must be directly submitted using the forms provided online.

After the application period closes, an independent evaluation team will evaluate the applications against specified selection criteria. Once the evaluation team has made their recommendation, ICANN staff will enter into contract negotiations with recommended applicants.

A timeline for the activities involved in the application period is provided in the RFP. The application deadline is March 15, 2004 at 23.59 UTC.


About ICANN:
ICANN is a non-profit organization responsible for coordinating the global Internet's systems of unique identifiers, including the systems of domain names and numeric addresses that are used to reach all computers on the Internet. ICANN's mission is to ensure the stable and secure operation of these unique identifier systems, which are vital to the Internet's operation. In addition, ICANN coordinates policy development related to these technical functions.

For more information on ICANN, please visit: www.icann.org