Big Apple seeks NYC web domain

New York City government officials are seeking a qualified vendor to assist the city in applying for and obtaining the “.nyc” top level domain (TLD) web address. If the city acquires the TLD, that vendor would work with the city on operating managing, maintaining and marketing .nyc. A TLD is the last part of an Internet address, such as .com, .gov or .edu.

The city’s Department of Information Technology and Telecommunications (DoITT) recently issued a Request for Proposals (RFP) to try to find a qualified vendor for the TLD project. City officials hope to use the .nyc TLD to generate revenue, assist residents in locating city government services, help local businesses, market and promote tourism in the city, and spread New York City’s image globally.

“Each day, the Internet serves as an essential tool in the lives of an increasing number of New Yorkers, helping inform the ways they live, learn and play,” said Paul Cosgrave, the city’s commissioner at the DoITT. “Through .nyc, we hope to make the search for New York City-related content easier than ever by providing individuals, organizations, non-profits and others a chance to own a virtual piece of the greatest city in the world.”

“A top-level city needs a top level domain, that’s why finding a partner to join the city in making .nyc a reality for small businesses in New York is vitally important,” said City Council Speaker Christine Quinn. “Once the .nyc program is launched, local business owners will be able to uniquely associate themselves and their business with their home, and the NYC brand.”

The Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numerals (ICANN), the governing body that charters new TLD names for the Internet is considering issuing a variety of new TLDs that may indicate a particular municipality. Should ICANN issue the .nyc TLD, the city will submit an application to obtain it.

Responses to the DoITT TLD RFP are due by Nov. 12, at which point the city will review and determine a winning vendor based on the quantity and quality of successful relevant experience, demonstrated level of organizational capability and overall quality of proposed approach.

Last April, DoITT released a Request for Information (RFI) soliciting feedback about options for the administration and use of the .nyc TLD from ICAAN accredited registrars, Internet service providers, the interactive community, E-commerce providers and other organizations. Responses to that solicitation formed the framework for development of the DoITT TLD RFP.