A generic TLD lets you operate the definitive internet address for an entire industry, community, or category. You become the registry — the place where everyone in your space registers their online identity.
ICANN is opening applications for new generic Top-Level Domains for the first time in over a decade. This is your chance to apply to operate a TLD that serves an entire industry or community — and build a recurring revenue business from it.
A generic TLD is an open namespace — like .shop, .app, or .music. You operate it, set the rules, set the pricing, and earn revenue every time someone registers or renews a domain name on it. Think of it as building and managing a neighbourhood that an entire community wants to live in.
A well-operated generic TLD generates revenue from multiple sources — all of which grow as the namespace gains adoption. Revenue composition varies by TLD, but successful generic registries typically see this blend by Year 3 of operation.
"New gTLDs grew 30% in 2025 and now account for nearly half of all global domain growth. The market isn't emerging — it's arrived."
Operating a generic TLD isn't just a revenue play. It positions you at the centre of an industry's digital identity — with influence, visibility, and a recurring business asset that appreciates over time.
You don't need to be a tech company to do this — but you do need specialist support. That's what Sokomi is here for. Here's what the road looks like.
Sokomi helps you identify the right TLD string, assess market demand, build the business case, and prepare the full ICANN application. We handle the technical partner selection and financial modelling.
You have until 12 August to submit. The total application fee is $227,000 per string — the entry cost for owning a permanent piece of internet infrastructure.
No late entries. If you're not in, you wait for the next round — which could be another 10+ years away.
ICANN reviews all applications. Contention sets are identified if multiple parties applied for the same string. Sokomi supports you through review, clarification, and any challenge processes.
Once approved, your TLD goes live. Sunrise period for trademark holders, then general availability. Registration revenue begins from Day 1 of general availability.
Sokomi has advised over 250 registry operators and guided organisations through every stage of the TLD application process since 2012. We're ready when you are.
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