dotBrand Applications Reopen Spring 2026 - Be Ready to Lead
A dotBrand is more than a domain. It’s trust, security, and innovation under your control.
Don’t wait another decade to put your brand in the driver’s seat.
Real-World Success with dotBrands
Hundreds of leading companies already use dotBrands to power innovation.
Audi
Launched more than 1,700 sites on .audi for global dealers and campaigns.
Apple
Uses newsroom.apple as a trusted hub for official updates.
BNP Paribas
Consolidated customer portals under .bnpparibas for a secure banking experience.
These brands don’t just own a TLD – they use it strategically to build trust, cut costs, and strengthen their digital edge.
Why a dotBrand Matters in 2026
Trust + Credibility
Security + Protection
Marketing Flexibility
The gap between ICANN Requirements + Real Business Results
ICANN Application
(The Why)
ICANN compliance
Security + abuse safeguards
Technical operations
Data protection
Financial disclosures
The Gap
Business Success
(The How)
Set clear objectives
Identify growth opportunities
Prioritize initiatives
Measure ROI
Execute with confidence
The ICANN Application Process Explained
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Application Window
ICANN charges an evaluation fee of $227,000 per application. Only those prepared in advance will be ready to submit during the short window. -
Contracting & Delegation
Once approved, your brand signs a registry agreement with ICANN and completes the technical delegation of your TLD. -
Launch & Growth
After delegation, the real work begins - building internal adoption, rolling out customer-facing uses, and integrating your dotBrand into everyday business.
Here's How to Get Started with Your dotBrand:
Schedule Your Strategy Call
Kick things off with a conversation to see if a dotBrand is the right move for your organization.
Enroll in TLD Class
Bring your team up to speed. We’ll onboard and prep you for dotBrand success.
Build your Brand TLD Plan
Define priorities, uncover growth opportunities, and design a roadmap for maximum impact.
Appy with Confidence
Submit your ICANN application knowing every box is checked and every detail covered.
Launch + Lead
Bring your TLD to life, unlock new opportunities, and position your brand for the future.
How TLDz Guides Your DotBrand Journey
Is a dotBrand only for global giants?
Not at all. Many brands start small – using their TLD internally for redirects or campaigns – before scaling to customer-facing sites.
What does it cost to apply?
ICANN charges a $227,000 evaluation fee per application. Registry operations vary depending on scale and technical setup.
How long does it take?
Preparation can take 6 – 12 months, from business case to application. The ICANN evaluation itself takes several months.
What happens if we’re not ready in time?
ICANN’s next round opens in April 2026, the first in more than a decade. If you miss it, the next opportunity may be 8 – 10 years away.
Do we need a technical team?
No. TLDz works with backend providers and guides you through setup, so your internal team doesn’t need registry expertise.
Start Your dotBrand Strategy Today
The 2026 ICANN application round is the first opportunity in more than a decade. Preparation takes time – start now to secure your digital future.
Ready to Unlock the Full Power of Your dotBrand?
Hands-On Experience
We don’t just know TLDs - we’ve run them. With real-world registry and brand operations under our belt, we help you avoid the pitfalls that derail less-experienced teams.
Independent
Our only agenda is your success. We’re free from backend or reseller ties, giving you unbiased, confidential guidance without the upsell.
Proven Results
Over 40 TLDs launched. A 100% success rate on 50+ ICANN applications. Trusted by brands and cities worldwide to deliver lasting digital assets.
Know whether applying is right for your organization
Accurately estimate ROI for your brand TLD
Gain competitive advantage with a dotBrand
Navigate ICANN changes with confidence
Step-by-step guidance on applying and attaining your TLD
Secure buy-in from leadership
How TLDz Guides Your dotBrand Journey
Unlike most advisors, we’re not tied to registries, backend providers, or service platforms. We are independent, experienced, and 100% focused on your success.
Proven Expertise
- Over 50 successful TLD applications with a 100% approval rate- Trusted by brands and cities worldwide to deliver lasting digital assets- Step-by-step guidance on applying and attaining your TLD
Hands-On Operations
- Experience running 40+ TLDs worldwide - from launch to long-term growth - Real-world registry and brand operations under our belt- Avoid pitfalls that derail less-experienced teams- Accurately estimate ROI for your brand TLD
Independent Guidance
- Every recommendation is client-first, free from vendor bias - Gain competitive advantage with a dotBrand- Navigate ICANN changes with confidence- Secure buy-in from leadership
Taking Your Brand TLD To The Top
Brand Top-Level Domains
Unlock the full potential of your business with your exclusive dotBrand. Say goodbye to confusion and hello to clarity – we show you the real-world uses and long-term value of owning your TLD.
With TLD Class, you’ll uncover opportunities, craft a customized strategy, and gain the buy-in you need. Let us help you take your brand higher.
Not sure if a dotBrand aligns with your goals? Explore the possibilities with our Zen Report.
Revitalize Your TLD
Already own a dotBrand but it’s sitting idle? We’ll breathe new life into it.
Our team uncovers hidden potential, brings fresh strategies, and shows you how to elevate adoption and impact. We’re more than advisors – we’re your catalyst for growth.
Reignite your TLD’s success with our Accelerator service.
Your dotBrand Action Plan
TLDz delivers a proven, hands-on program designed to transform your TLD idea into a real-world advantage. From strategy and ROI to launch and adoption – we guide every step to ensure success.
Real-World Results You Can See
Here are just a few of the TLDs we’ve helped bring to life - from global brands to major cities
Discover What Makes a TLD Truly Thrive
Our free interactive guide puts you in control.
Think of it as a choose-your-own-adventure for TLD success –
brand, open, geo, or community.
Just pick what matters to you, skip what doesn’t, and get practical
advice tailored to your goals.