1 Expressions of Interest Exercise in New gTLD Round & Planning Guidebook 4 Registrar Constituency Nairobi March 9, 2010

EOI / pre-registration process  To serve the public interest by facilitating the launch of the New gTLD Program in a secure, stable, well- organised and efficient manner  Benefits −Ascertain number of first round applications −Identifying instances of possible string contention −Identifying areas of potential objection −Informing the economic benefits / risks discussion −Identifying unanticipated issues, providing flexibility −Hasten the launch of the new gTLD program by answering or raising issues before the decision to launch is made 2

EOI Public Discussion  Public forum session suggests EOI (Oct 09)  Questions posted for public input (Nov-Dec 09)  Analysis and model posted for public comment (Dec 09)  Comment analysis posted (Feb 10) −Clarify goals and benefits −Affirmation of model −Timing and pre-requisites clarified  Nairobi: Public discussion to inform Board decision 3

Key elements of the proposed model  Mandatory for eligibility in the first gTLD round. −Voluntary EOI: substantial cost / no value  A deposit of US $55,000 required. −Discourage speculation / tied to gTLD fee structure  Non-refundable, unless round not launched −Bright line rule / settle issues before launching  Participant and string information will be made public −Transparency / inform operational readiness & objections  A fully executed communications plan, to promote global awareness −Will not work to disadvantage various groups  No evaluations will occur 4

Pre-requisites to EOI  Publish version 4 of Guidebook  Resolution required for at least: −Trademark RPMs settled −Three-character issue −Vertical integration  Full communications plan executed  Operationally ready to conduct process 5

Expression of Interest (EOI) – Shortest Path EOI Communication Plan EOI Operational Readiness EOI Period EOI Report Months EOI Model Vertical Separation Board DiscussionBoard Decision Communication Plan Continues

Applicant Guidebook v4 – Shortest Path Clearinghouse 3-Char rule exception Months Economics Study / Objection Model Proposal URS Vertical Separation Amendment process Malicious Conduct Variant Mgmt Base Agreement Publish AGBv4 Board Decision