FAQs

What is Startup.tech?

Startup.tech is an invite-only program from the team behind .tech Domains. It gives founders access to short, high-value .tech domain names, with costs covered for the first year. Because your startup's name shouldn't be a compromise.

Who is eligible to apply?

This program isn't for just any founder. It's for serious tech builders — the kind that don't cut corners on product or branding.

Here’s what we’re looking for:

• Your startup is tech-first.
  You’re not just using tech to enable a service — tech is the core of what you’re building. Think AI, SaaS, Web3, devtools, infra, or other frontier builds.
• You’re early-stage, but already moving.
  You can be at the idea stage, but it can’t just be a fleeting thought. We need to see signs that you're building: prototypes, roadmaps, or anything that shows you're serious about shipping.
• You’ve got intent to build and ship.
  A good domain is a launchpad, not a placeholder. This isn’t for parking, reselling, or hobby projects.
• You (or your team) bring strong founder energy.
  Think YC or South Park Commons alum, past startup success, accelerator backing, domain expertise, or a demo that speaks for itself.

Bottom line? We’re backing founders with skin in the game and tech at their core. If that’s you, we want to hear from you.

How does the invite-only model work?

You apply to request an invite. We review your application. Our team might even get in touch to learn more.

If your credentials check out, our team will contact you with the next steps to claim your .tech domain name.

How do I request an invite?

Click on the "request invite" button placed across the page and fill out the application form it leads you to. You will also be required to find and confirm the high-value .tech domain you want, so be sure to give it some thought.

What happens after I apply?

Our team vets every application. We might contact you for more info. If you're selected, your domain is yours—costs covered for year one. When, after a year, your startup/idea takes off, you can renew the domain yourself.

How long does the review process take?

A few days to a week. Whether you're in or not—we'll let you know either way.

What do I get if I'm selected?

A short, sharp, high-value .tech domain—on the house for year one. You'll also get to join a roster of serious builders claiming serious names.

Is it really free for the first year?

The first year is on us. After that, standard renewal pricing kicks in. No strings. No hidden fine print. We want to give great tech founders and their startups a chance at owning really good domain names without worrying about the cost in their early days.

What are the renewal costs after year one?

Depends on the domain. You'll see the renewal price upfront—no surprises.

Can I transfer my domain after the first year?

Yes. It's yours to use and move wherever you want.

What if I don't launch within a year?

If you don't use the domain, it comes back into the program for someone else to build on. That's how we keep this fair.

Can I apply again if I don't get selected?

Sorry! But as of now, each founder only gets one chance to apply for the program. We make sure of this by linking your application to your LinkedIn account.

Will you help me choose a domain if mine is taken?

We've got you. If your tech checks out, we'll help match you with the right .tech domain—even if your first pick's taken. Just apply, and we'll take it from there.

Do I need to already have a product or users to apply?

Not necessarily. Early-stage founders are welcome, as long as your idea's clear and your build is real.

Can solo founders apply?

Yes. Just be credible. We've worked with solo founders before.

What is a high-value domain?

It's short. It's memorable. Often priced in four to six figures or higher. Through the Startup.tech program we will cover the first-year cost for highly-promising tech founders and their startups or ideas.

Why are high-value domains so expensive?

Because they're scarce—and powerful. High-value domains are short, memorable, and instantly signal legitimacy. That's why they're priced high: there are only so many good names, and every founder wants one.

A strong domain helps you get noticed, taken seriously, and remembered. We built this program to give serious founders early access—without the six-figure paywall.

Why should I choose a .tech domain over .com?

The best .coms are long gone—or priced out of reach. Through this program, you can get a short, high-value .tech domain that actually signals what you're building. No vague branding. No hyphens or workarounds. Just a clean, unmistakably tech name that tells investors, users, and search engines: you are building a startup with tech at its core.

Is .tech credible for investors and users?

Absolutely. From VC-backed startups to global product launches, .tech is already the domain of record for serious tech.

How do I know if a .tech domain is right for me?

If tech is at your startup's core, this is your signal. Your name should say what your startup does—right from the start.

Can I use a .tech domain for my personal brand or portfolio?

You can, but Startup.tech is focused on supporting founders with highly promising startups or ideas—not portfolios or personal pages.