new gTLD Program
The New Generic Top-Level Domains (gTLD) Program Next Round will enable the further expansion of the Domain Name Space (DNS) through the introduction of new gTLDs.
This new round is an opportunity for cities, regions cultural and language communities around the world to obtain the geoTLD that represents their identity online.
Applications for the new round are expected to open in April 2026.
The GeoTLD Group and the new gTLD Program
The GeoTLD Group looks forward to the upcoming round and hopes to see the DNS enriched with many top-level domains based on geographic names, geographic identifiers, or geographic origins, all aimed at serving their respective communities.
The GeoTLD Group, as a membership organisation, is ready to provide general information on geoTLDs and the upcoming application round.
Among the GeoTLD Group members are companies that, in addition to operating a geoTLD registry, also offer commercial services to those seeking assistance with applying for a new gTLD and can be contacted directly.
Timelines, key dates, and application process
The new gTLD Program is a community driven ICANN initiative. The website newgtld.icann.org offers extensive information, background materials, and regular updates. A visit to the site is highly recommended to those interested in applying for a new gTLD.
The application submission period for the new gTLDs is expected to open in Q2 2026.
Useful links
GeoTLD Group outreach and capacity building on geoTLDs
8 March 2025 – GeoTLD Group capacity building session ICANN Government Advisory Committee – more formation
GeoTLD Group members providing commercial support to applicants
Among the GeoTLD Group members are companies that, in addition to operating a geoTLD registry, also offer commercial services to those seeking assistance with applying for a new gTLD and can be contacted directly. They are listed by country, but their services go beyond borders.
Austria
- domainworx Service & Management GmbH
Services: domainworx supports companies, cities and organisations with the introduction and administration of their own Top-Level Domains (TLDs). We take care of all organisational and administrative tasks, from application to technical implementation and ongoing operation.
domainworx operates .wien, .koeln, .cologne and supports .tirol .
contact: Ronald Schwärzler (servicedesk@domainworx.consulting), url https://domainworx.consulting .
France
- Sparkling
Services: Sparkling supports you at every stage of the Top Level Domain (TLD) application process, then on a day-to-day basis in the management of your TLD: sales, marketing, technical, legal, relations with ICANN and other stakeholders. Sparkling can support any type of TLD project: public authorities, businesses & corpTLDs, NGOs & associations, etc. Sparkling offers a service tailored to your needs and resources
Sparkling operates .alsace .
contact: Benjamin Louis (benjamin@sparkling.alsace), +33 6 12 45 66 48 , url http://www.mondomaine.alsace .
Germany
- Dotzon GmbH
Services: DOTZON has been founded by the initiators of geoTLDs in 2005. Since then, DOTZON has supported over 30 cities, regions, communities and companies in the application process for their top-level domain and operates them on their behalf. Our clients benefit from our more than 20 years of experience in working with ICANN.
The DOTZON founders own and operate the geoTLDs .berlin and .hamburg .
contact: Katrin Ohlmer (ohlmer@dotzon.consulting), +49 173 2029240 , url http://www.dotzon.consulting .
the Netherlands
- Dotlocal
Services: Application services, technical operation and financial assistance.
Dotlocal takes care of every aspect of your local domain extension: from preparing and submitting the application to full technical operation, and from legal advise to financial support. DotLocal supports the .amsterdam and .frl geoTLDs.
contact: Siemen Roorda (info@dotlocal.com), url https://dotlocal.com/en/