Releasing 94 Previously Unregistered 1- to 2-character .ORG Addresses
A web address is like real estate: it’s all about curb appeal. It’s often the first thing consumers see about a brand or company online, and can make a huge difference when it comes to optimizing online branding and outreach efforts. These days, web addresses are surpassing 20 characters in length, but history has shown that short names really resonate with audiences.
So it’s with great excitement that Public Interest Registry this week launched “Project94,” the release of 94 previously unregistered one- to two-character .ORG addresses – the shortest and perhaps most memorable domain names available. Through a partnership with Go Daddy and eNom, the addresses will be made available through an allocation process to companies and organizations who respect the attributes .ORG has become known for – namely, trust and well-intentioned.
For non-profits, corporations and individuals alike, this is a great opportunity to advance a cause or corporate social responsibility (CSR) program with a short, sweet and memorable domain name that also carries with it the inherent values of the .ORG brand.
When PIR first took over operation of the .ORG domain in 2003, these names were reserved for future allocation. Upon joining PIR last year, though, I saw a great opportunity to open these names up to qualified registrants looking to boost and protect their online brand. We also saw tremendous interest from the Internet community.
For close to a decade, PIR has championed programs aimed at strengthening the safety and integrity of the Internet and at improving access to technology in underserved markets. So when we considered how we can make a difference through Project94, it was a natural decision to direct the proceeds back to the Internet community. With Project94, not only do registrants have the opportunity to leverage the significant branding power of these rare one- and two-letter .ORG names, but more importantly, we’ll be using the proceeds to help more organizations and causes around the world benefit from a secure, open Internet. In fact, one specific program we expect the proceeds to go to is an initiative to drive broader adoption of Domain Name System Security Extensions (DNSSEC).
We’re looking forward to seeing where each of these domains land. If you’d like to throw your hat in the ring for one of the available names, or are simply interested in more information on Project94, please visit www.project94.org.
