ICANN New gTLD Program: Next Round Sourcing Timeline

June 2025 (RFI) : String Similarity & Variant Justification

Description : Conduct algorithmic and linguistic evaluations of applied-for gTLDs, identifying similarities that could cause user confusion and ensuring unique and distinguishable strings.

Q3 2025 (RFQ) : Background Screening

Description : Conduct comprehensive due diligence on applicants, ensuring compliance with eligibility criteria, including criminal history checks and business due diligence.

Learn more here.