To Whom It May Concern: As a designer serving several nonprofit organizations, I wanted to express an opinion about the proposed price increases for .ORG domain names. If drastic increases come for .ORG domain names, I think this will be a major impediment to formation of new nonprofit organizations. At the very least, it will raise the hurdle for nonprofits to move from the "bootstrap" phase into legitimacy. It's already difficult enough for service-minded people to establish a board, enlist volunteers, raise funds, manage tax filings, and communicate professionally. If .ORG domain names were to quickly inflate in price, it would increase the friction and the resistance that startup organizations face. The result is that fewer mission-oriented nonprofits will be able to launch and grow. It would also result in fewer startup organizations using the .ORG extension. This won't just hurt executive directors or would-be organization leaders; I think it will damage the public trust. Please look for ways to keep the .ORG extension registration prices low. There are plenty of other TLDs that should be subject to unfettered market forces. The .ORG extension, however, is unique in that it is sought by startup nonprofits and charities. In the spirit of Alex de Tocqueville's observations about institutions and charities in the 17th century United States, I believe it's important that nonprofits and charities be encouraged and fostered. Keeping the .ORG extension affordable is one way we can encourage these vital organizations in our culture. Thank you for your consideration. Warm regards, -- Andy Johnston, Designer AJ Design and Marketing, LLC email: mailto:andy@ajdesignco.com phone: (864) 554-5061