Draft Application Guidebook - Module 1

["Ursula le Roux" <Ursulalr@xxxxxxxxxxxxxxx>]

Hi there

 

The gTLD application fee is currently set at USD185,000. This is only
for 1 application of 1 gTLD name. We would like an option to apply for
multiple gTLD names. This is not covered in your document and it means
that if you are unsuccessful you end up with nothing. I think this will
scare off a lot of applicants as the fee is steep and USD185,000 per
string is significant.

 

One fair way of doing this would be to apply for up to 5 gTLD's in order
of preference. You pay the USD185,000 for this. If you are unsuccessful
on your first choice then you go into a 2nd round of applications based
on your 2nd choice etc etc. There could be an additional fee to cover
the 2nd round etc.

 

Another way is to only apply for 1 gTLD. All unsuccessful applicants are
given the option to enter into a qualifying 2nd round. These applicants
that have paid USD 185,000 and still have nothing will at least have an
option to continue with a 2nd round with far less contenders and the
gTLD names from the first round will not be available. There could be
additional fees to cover costs if the applicants want to progress.

 

We feel that an organisation that is willing to pay USD185,000 is
serious about their application and they should be given more
opportunities to get a gTLD than to walk away with nothing. 

 

These companies would obviously have to pass all the other qualifying
criteria.

 

The above process would be more in line with the foundational principles
of ICANN to promote competition in the domain-name marketplace while
ensuring Internet security and stability, allowing the internet to
belong to everyone, not just a few big rich corporates. 

 

Regards

Smartcall


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