Own what's next.
Own your TLD.

The Next Round of ICANN's new gTLD program is expected to launch in April 2026. It’s your once-in-a-decade chance to apply for a Top-Level Domain (TLD). Identity Digital is here to help you do it confidently, securely, and successfully.

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Why apply for your own TLD?

Operating a TLD puts you in control of your corner of the internet. Whether you want to create a trusted space for your brand or open a new namespace for generic, geographic, or community use, your TLD puts you in charge.

Brand Protection

Protect your online presence and community with trusted, compliant infrastructure.

Operational Flexibility

Create a closed, curated environment or open your TLD to registrants around the world.

Revenue Opportunity

Unlock new income streams by monetizing domain registrations and renewals.

Don't miss the moment

It’s been over a decade since organizations last had the chance to apply for new TLDs. In 2012, thousands of applications flooded in from the world’s most recognizable brands and innovators. In 2026, the competition will be even stronger. Everyone from Fortune 500 companies to Web3 startups is preparing for the Next Round. The time to plan is now.

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The smartest choice for your Next Round TLD

Identity Digital is the most trusted Registry Services Provider (RSP) in the world. We power 460+ gTLDs, ccTLDs, and dot brands, bringing unmatched expertise to every step of the journey. We can manage the entire lifecycle—from application to launch to operations—to ensure you meet ICANN technical requirements and maximize your TLD's potential.

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Cloud-Native Registry Platform at Scale

We’re the only major registry operator of our size running on AWS. That means better uptime, faster scaling, and lower operational risk.

Proven Track Record of ICANN-Compliance

We don’t just promise reliability, we deliver. With over two decades of ICANN Service-Level Agreement (SLA) compliance across 460+ TLDs, our track record speaks for itself.

Trusted by the Most Risk-Averse Clients

Governments, NGOs, and major registries rely on Identity Digital. When stability, compliance, and reputation matter most, they choose us.

Powerful AI-Powered Analytics Tools

Our AI-enhanced tools transform data into actionable insights–enabling you to optimize pricing, uncover untapped growth opportunities, and accelerate revenue.

Industry-Leading DNS Abuse Protection

We don’t just react–we proactively defend your namespace. Our Dynamic DefenseTM model partners with global law enforcement and the DNS community to enhance the safety and reliability of your TLD.

World-Class Security You Can Count On

Our platform exceeds ICANN requirements and aligns with global standards like ISO 27001/2, ISO 22301, & NIST Cybersecurity Framework, minimizing risk and ensuring long-term TLD stability.

Flexible pricing,
built around your goals

Identity Digital offers flexible service tiers so you pay only for what you need, without compromising security, reliability, or growth.

Every tier includes our trusted Core Services

They provide the foundation your TLD needs—reliable infrastructure, full ICANN technical compliance, and 24/7 global support.

See our Core Services

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Access to over 1800+ ICANN-accredited global registrars to grow your TLD
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Delegation and migration support for your TLD
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State-of-the-art registry services: a modern, shared registry system using the AWS cloud
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Global DNS support
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Native DNSSEC support
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Data escrow file submission to your selected provider
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RDDS support as required by ICANN
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IDN support if needed
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Required ICANN policy implementation (RGP, excess delete fees, privacy)
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Full compliance with all registry operations as detailed in your agreement with ICANN
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Access to our Global 24/7 Technical Support team and Account Management
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Nic.TLD webpage
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Registrar Invoicing

Essential

Launch and operate your TLD with confidence on a reliable foundation.

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Shared Wallet Participation
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Basic Business Intelligence
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Basic Account Support
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Basic Global Block Integration
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Basic Dropzone Integration
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Basic Dynamic Defense Feed
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Basic Escrow Service Support
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Reserved and Premium Name Inventory Management
Contact for pricing

Enhanced

Scale smarter with AI-powered insights and expert support.

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All Essential services
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Custom Registrar Wallet
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AI-Powered Business Intelligence
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Dedicated Account Mgmt
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Dropzone Custom Pricing
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TLD Launch Consultation & Marketing Support
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Registry Lock
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Registry-Registrar Agreement (RRA)
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Promo Engine
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Dynamic Defense Mgmt
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Application Guide
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Most Popular

Elite

Supercharge growth with premium optimization and fully managed services.

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All Enhanced services
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Premium Optimization Platform
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Premium Domain Pricing Strategy
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Platinum Name Sales
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Discounted Custom Development
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Semi-Annual Business Review
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Managed Registry Service
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Managed Registry Service

Our Managed Registry Service handles every aspect of your TLD, tailored to your unique vision. From technical infrastructure and ICANN compliance to marketing and growth, we deliver a custom solution that keeps your TLD running smoothly and helps you scale successfully.

Contact for Pricing

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Frequently Asked Questions

What are the benefits of operating a gTLD?

A gTLD is a digital asset that gives you complete control over your corner of the internet. It can build trust and security for established brands, open new revenue opportunities through generic namespaces, or create space for innovation in emerging fields like Web3. Whether you want a closed dotBrand or a wide-open extension for registrants worldwide, a gTLD puts you in charge.

Who is eligible to apply for a new gTLD?

Any registered business, regardless of geographic location, can apply to form and operate a new gTLD registry. This includes businesses, communities, and organizations seeking to own a TLD tailored to their brand, industry, or mission. ICANN evaluates applications based on financial, technical, and operational readiness.

When does the next round of gTLD applications open?

ICANN has announced that the next round of new gTLD applications will open in April 2026. The application window is limited, and preparation can take months. Applicants who start early will have more time to prepare strong submissions.

Why should I act now to prepare?

The Next Round application process is complex and highly competitive. Determining which string to apply for and understanding the process can take significant time. Planning now ensures you’ll meet ICANN deadlines and maximize your chance of approval.

Why do I need a Registry Service Provider (RSP)?

ICANN requires all new gTLD applicants to partner with an approved Registry Service Provider (RSP) to make sure their TLD runs securely, reliably, and in full compliance with technical standards. To support this, ICANN created the RSP Evaluation Program, which rigorously tests RSPs on their technical capabilities before they can work with applicants. Identity Digital has applied for pre-approval as a Main, DNS, and DNSSEC RSP with ICANN. We anticipate successful evaluation of our applications and inclusion in ICANN’s publication of approved RSPs in December 2025.

What are the risks of choosing the wrong RSP?

Registry transitions are complex. Picking an inexperienced RSP can expose you to risk and limit your options for revenue growth.

How much does a new gTLD application cost?

The expected ICANN evaluation fee for a single gTLD application is USD $227,000. Additional expenses may include legal fees, community or brand designation evaluations, and costs from contention resolution or auctions. Successful applicants will also have ongoing annual registry fees and operational costs.

Let’s make your TLD a reality

The Next Round opens April 2026. Preparation starts today. Identity Digital will be with you every step of the way, from application to launch and beyond.

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