ICANN opens request for proposal for 2026 round safeguard assessment orovider
ICANN has launched a request for proposal to select a provider that will conduct safeguard assessments for applied-for strings in the 2026 round of the New Generic Top-Level Domain Program. The selected provider will evaluate whether applications require risk-based public interest commitments before moving to contracting.
The Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers has issued a request for proposal (RFP) to identify a qualified provider to carry out safeguard assessments for the New Generic Top-Level Domain Program’s 2026 round. This evaluation forms part of the string evaluation phase and determines whether applied-for strings fall into risk-based categories that require public interest commitments in areas such as consumer protection, regulated sectors, cyberbullying risks, or inherently governmental functions. These commitments become binding obligations in registry agreements.
According to the RFP, the chosen provider will be responsible for managing the full assessment workflow. This includes developing standard procedures, forming and training an expert panel, reviewing all applications and variants, documenting rationales, and recording determinations through ICANN’s application management system. The provider must also ensure conflict-of-interest safeguards, maintain quality control, and collaborate with ICANN throughout the evaluation period. The work is expected to begin after String Confirmation Day in late 2026, with a projected six-month timeline.
ICANN outlines detailed operational, technical, and governance requirements, including strict expectations for data security, evaluator expertise, international coordination, and consistent application of the safeguard framework developed following Governmental Advisory Committee advice in earlier rounds. Interested organisations must submit indications of interest before 22 January 2026. Official responses to the RFP should be electronically submitted using ICANN’s sourcing tool by 23:59 UTC on 29 January 2026. Access to this tool may be requested via the same email address.
The RFP is a key step in preparing for the upcoming application round, signalling ICANN’s intention to reinforce transparency and accountability measures in the next expansion of the Domain Name System.
