Can You Create a .purpose Website?
In a digital age where branding and identity are everything, many individuals and organizations seek unique web domains that reflect their mission or ethos. One such idea that often comes up is creating a website with a domain ending in .purpose. But can you actually register a .purpose
domain and build a website on it? Here's everything you need to know.
What is a Top-Level Domain (TLD)?
A Top-Level Domain (TLD) is the last segment of a domain name — the part that comes after the final dot. Common examples include .com
, .org
, .net
, and increasingly, niche or branded domains like .tech
, .design
, and .ai
.
These TLDs are governed by the Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers (ICANN), which manages and delegates authority for domain extensions to registries.
Is .purpose
a Real TLD?
As of mid-2025, .purpose
is not an available or recognized top-level domain. This means that you cannot currently register a domain like www.mybrand.purpose
. It is neither a generic TLD (gTLD) nor a country-code TLD (ccTLD) approved by ICANN.
However, just because it’s not available today doesn't mean it will never exist.
Why Would Someone Want a .purpose
Domain?
The .purpose
extension conveys a strong sense of mission, intention, and values. It's an ideal candidate for:
-
Non-profits and NGOs promoting their cause.
-
Mission-driven startups or social enterprises.
-
Personal brands focused on mindfulness, coaching, or life goals.
-
Campaigns or movements rallying people around a purpose.
A .purpose
domain could communicate these ideas powerfully — if it were available.
What Are Your Alternatives?
While .purpose
isn't currently an option, there are several meaningful and creative alternatives:
1. Use Existing TLDs Creatively
You can still create a purpose-driven website using available domains:
-
mypurpose.org
(ideal for non-profits) -
withpurpose.life
-
drivenby.purpose.io
(by using subdomains) -
livewithpurpose.co
2. Register a Subdomain
If you own a domain like yourbrand.com
, you can create a subdomain such as:
-
purpose.yourbrand.com
-
withpurpose.yourdomain.org
3. Follow New TLD Releases
Keep an eye on ICANN and domain registries. New TLDs are released periodically. If interest and demand are high, a registry might propose .purpose
in the future.
4. Start a Petition or Application
Large organizations can actually apply to operate new TLDs. If you represent a business, nonprofit, or consortium, you can consider applying for .purpose
in a future ICANN application round — though this process is costly and complex.
Final Thoughts
Although you can't create a .purpose
website today due to the TLD's unavailability, the idea isn't far-fetched. The landscape of domain names is always evolving. Meanwhile, creative use of existing TLDs and subdomains can still help you build a strong, meaningful web presence that communicates your purpose clearly.
So no, you can't create a .purpose
website — yet. But with a little creativity, you can still put your purpose online.
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