Most of you know that I have been a long-time member and strong supporter of the Internet Commerce Association.
Anyone who has had to face a UDRP, or seen the policies that are proposed at ICANN, knows that the rights of domain owners are always under threat.
Fortunately a group of members from the domain industry has banded together to create the ICA to represent the interests of the domain industry. I, and other members, have continued to support the ICA and the work of our lobbyist, Phil Corwin, for the past ten years.
The ICA works largely behind the scenes.
It has a tight budget – there’s no fluff – and it all goes to advocacy, not to self-promotion.
This has left many people in the domain industry wondering what the ICA does, and who the members are.
Thanks to Richard Lau and the team at NamesCon, who are themselves ICA members and big supporters, the ICA will be having a “coming out party” of sorts at this NamesCon.
The ICA will for the first time hold a live, public session to give NamesCon attendees a better appreciation for the work that the ICA does on our behalf.
“ICA Live” is Tuesday at 11:45 am. Bill Sweetman of Name Ninja will be moderating and has created a great program showcasing the achievements of the ICA. Phil Corwin will present the ICA’s current policy priorities. Audience members can ask questions of Phil or any of the ICA members present. A couple of ICA members will talk about why they chose to become involved. The ICA is also giving away a Nest Protect WiFi IP Camera as a door prize, courtesy of ICA member Escrow.com.
In addition to ICA Live, the ICA has a table during the Network Lane on Sunday. Stop by for a casual chat with the ICA members at the table to learn more about the ICA. The ICA will have Booth #23 in the main exhibit hall through the rest of the conference. You’ll have plenty of opportunities to have any of your questions about the ICA answered.
You can also look for ICA members during the conference who will be wearing ICA member pins. In addition, the a two-page spread in the conference guide and flyers at the booth will highlight the main priorities and accomplishments of the ICA.
The ICA is looking to expand and welcomes new members.
If you want to help shape the policy priorities for the domain industry and help ensure that the domain industry has a bright future by working with a great group of like-minded people, then you should consider joining the ICA.
This NamesCon you’ll have an excellent opportunity to learn about the work we do and whether it sounds like a good fit for you.
Remember UDRP reform is coming and the ICA is the only organization fighting for your rights as a domain holder against hundreds of lawyers (if not thousands) representing trademark owner’s interests.
Hope to see you there.
Most people in the domain industry (myself included) pay more attention to the market – its transactions and polemics – than to policy and lobbying efforts. That’s understandable, since consequences are delayed and our ability to influence events directly seems minimal. This being a weak area for many of us but an area of concern for all, it’s probably worth showing up to learn more.
A small portion of every domain purchase say $0.25 should go to ICA. That would go a long way at helping to keep the TM wolves away.
Have a great conference, wish I was there!
Steve
nice thought but who is going to collect it ICANN? Each domain registrar?
You have to join and give what you can
Hey Mike,
It could be an option at checkout on any of the registrars. Allow anyone that pays to display a “ICA” certified label on their domain so it also promotes the association as well. Even $.10 on every domain. Godaddy could lead the way. I wouldn’t think twice about adding $.25 to a domain purchase as long as I knew I could tap into the resources ie. legal help if a udrp was filed on any of the names that have paid the fee.
Steve
I will bring your idea to the Board and see what they think
Appreciate the feedback
It’s a great organization that EVERY domain owner needs to contribute to. Making contributions painless and easy to add on at checkout would be a great start.