New resource connects applicants to vetted experts for the 2026 New gTLD Program
RICHMOND, VA — Today at ICANN83 in Prague, the Domain Name Association (The DNA) officially launched its New gTLD Resource Directory, a curated, community-driven guide to service providers prepared to support applicants for the 2026 round of ICANN’s New gTLD Program.
Available now at thedna.org/new-gtlds, this directory is designed to connect first-time and returning applicants with experienced, trusted experts in legal, business, and technical services.
The DNA created this resource not as a marketing tool, but as a starting point for success—built on the principle that great ideas shouldn’t fail just because people don’t know where to begin.
A Different Kind of Directory
Unlike many industry lists, The DNA’s directory isn’t limited to its members. In fact, none of the members of the Advisory Council guiding this project are affiliated with The DNA or i2Coalition, which operates the program. That independence is intentional and essential.
We set out to build a neutral, trustworthy directory—not just a roster of our own members. This is about strengthening the domain name community by empowering those who want to build something new.
Christian Dawson, Executive Director of i2Coalition.
Providers listed in the directory must demonstrate either:
- Proven experience in supporting successful gTLD applications, or
- Clear readiness and domain-specific expertise relevant to the process.
This focus on quality ensures applicants are connecting with experts who can actually get the job done.
Guided by an Independent Advisory Council
To ensure fairness, accuracy, and transparency, The DNA assembled an independent Advisory Council, which includes:
- Lilian Fosteris, Digital & Domain Strategist
- Jothan Frakes, CEO, PLISK Registrar, 2012 Round SME
- Martin Küchenthal, CEO, LEMARIT GmbH
- Jim Prendergast, The Galway Strategy Group
- Christa Taylor, Co-Founder, TLDz, (CPA, CMA, Master of Science in Predictive Analytics)
Service Categories Covered
The Resource Directory organizes providers into three core categories:
- Business & Legal Services—Branding, legal strategy, financial planning
- Application Services—Application drafting, ICANN policy navigation
- Technical Services—DNS setup, DNSSEC, IDNs, RDAP, IPv6, registry operations
Applicants can also find providers participating in ICANN’s Pro Bono Support Program, offering subsidized services to eligible applicants.
Visit thedna.org/new-gtlds to explore provider categories, find expert guidance, or submit your services to the directory.
About The Domain Name Association (The DNA)
The DNA is the first global trade association for the domain name industry, offering trusted resources for registries, registrars, DNS providers, brand owners, and new entrants. As a program of the Internet Infrastructure Coalition (i2Coalition), The DNA promotes safe, accessible, and innovative domain name practices. Learn more at thedna.org.
Media Contact:
(202) 681-6032
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