ICANN Seeks Event Sponsorship Management Providers Through New RFI

On 23 December 2025, the Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers (ICANN) released a Request for Information (RFI) to identify potential provider(s) capable of delivering comprehensive event sponsorship management services. The goal is to understand available market capabilities that align with ICANN’s strategic objectives and established industry practices, while supporting its global events program.

This RFI represents an early discovery phase in ICANN’s procurement process. Information collected from respondents will help ICANN evaluate service models, operational approaches, and levels of expertise before moving forward with a subsequent Request for Proposal (RFP) aimed at formally selecting qualified provider(s).

Scope and Purpose of the Sponsorship Services

Through this RFI, ICANN is seeking insight into how sponsorships for ICANN Public Meetings and related events can be planned, managed, and executed across their full lifecycle. The focus is on ensuring sponsorship activities are professionally coordinated, aligned with ICANN’s values, and supportive of high-quality event delivery.

Respondents are expected to demonstrate experience in sponsorship management that includes sponsor engagement, development of sponsorship packages, coordination of agreed deliverables, and post-event evaluation. ICANN intends these services to support both in-person and virtual components of its events, while maintaining transparency and accountability.

Participation Details and Submission Guidelines

Organizations interested in participating are required to submit an indication of interest via email, including basic company and contact information. Full RFI responses must be submitted through ICANN’s designated sourcing platform no later than 23:59 UTC on 23 January 2026. Access to the platform can be requested if needed.

This RFI is the first stage of a two-step procurement process. Based on the information received, ICANN plans to invite selected respondents to participate in a follow-up RFP, where more detailed proposals will be requested. Input gathered at this stage will help shape the structure and requirements of that next phase.

ICANN’s Mission Context

ICANN is a nonprofit organization responsible for coordinating the unique identifiers that ensure the Internet remains stable, secure, and interoperable worldwide. Its work enables people everywhere to reach the same online destinations using a single, global Internet.

The sponsorship management services explored through this RFI are intended to support ICANN’s mission by strengthening global engagement at its public meetings and events. Effective sponsorship coordination plays a role in enhancing the overall event experience while supporting ICANN’s broader organizational objectives.