The Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers (ICANN) announced today that it has entered into an agreement with Analysys Mason Limited (Analysys Mason) to be the provider for the Geographic Names Panel and Reserved Names Panel in the New Generic Top-Level Domains (gTLD) Program: 2026 Round. The Geographic Names Panel evaluates if each applied-for gTLD string represents an eligible geographic name based on criteria set forth in the Applicant Guidebook (AGB). The Reserved Names Panel determines whether an applied-for gTLD string is a reserved name and, if so, verifies the relevance and authenticity of the applicant's required supporting documentation.
ICANN selected Analysys Mason to serve as the provider for both panels through a competitive Request for Proposal process initiated in February 2026. The selection followed ICANN's procurement best practices to ensure appropriate specifications, quality, and value.
Analysys Mason is a global technology, media, and telecoms management consulting firm. Drawing on expertise, experience, and research capabilities, Analysys Mason helps clients perform complex evaluations and make critical decisions every day. With more than 400 consultants in 17 offices, Analysys Mason is a trusted partner for governments, investors, and industry players, and has worked on projects in over 140 countries.
ICANN selected Analysys Mason because it is confident that it has the capabilities and experience needed to conduct Geographic Names and Reserved Names evaluations effectively. ICANN has also worked with Analysys Mason to ensure the fees remain as fair as possible, given the complexity of the evaluations. For information on fees, please see the FAQ on the New gTLD Program website.
More information on Geographic Names and Reserved Names is available in Section 7.1.2.2 and 7.1.2.3 of the AGB. For questions about this announcement, please contact [email protected].