The Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC) and SMEDAN have launched a programme to provide free business name registration for 250,000 nano, micro, and small enterprises in Nigeria. This is part of a drive to formalise informal businesses by removing the cost barrier to registration.
The aim is to help small businesses gain legitimacy, access markets, attract funding, and benefit from government support.
What You’ll Gain (Benefits)
- Zero registration fee for business name registration with CAC
- Entry into SMEDAN’s MSME database
- Eligibility to access training, grants, capacity building, and market linkages via SMEDAN
- Credibility and legal recognition for your business
Who Qualifies
- Nano, micro, or small enterprises in Nigeria not yet registered with CAC
- Businesses already in SMEDAN’s MSME database but without CAC registration
- Informal business owners who want to formalise
How to Participate (Steps)
- Go to
portal.smedan.gov.ngand fill out the registration form. - Ensure you are in SMEDAN’s database and do not already have CAC registration.
- SMEDAN will guide beneficiaries through completing CAC business name registration free of charge. Monitor communication from SMEDAN for when your registration is processed and finalized.
Tips & Important Notes
- Act early: This is a limited-size initiative (250,000 slots). Register quickly to secure your place.
- Have your business details ready: Name, address, owner info, contact, and any existing identifiers.
- Be accurate with information: Mistakes may delay or disqualify your registration.
- Check SMEDAN state offices or business clinics: They will help onboard entrepreneurs who are not digitally native.
