The Small and Medium Enterprises Development Agency of Nigeria (SMEDAN) has joined forces with the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC) to provide a wonderful opportunity for 250,000 micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) in Nigeria. This collaboration offers free business name registration, eliminating the financial barrier that often prevents businesses from formalizing their operations. This initiative is a game-changer for entrepreneurs, as it not only helps them establish credibility but also opens doors to essential support services and sets them up for success and expansion.
Registering a business is a crucial step in gaining access to funding, government assistance, grants, and market opportunities. Unfortunately, many small business owners in Nigeria shy away from official registration due to the costs and complexities involved. By removing the usual registration fee of around ₦22,000, this program aims to encourage more businesses to enter the formal economy. This move will make them eligible for a range of post-registration services and support programs, ultimately boosting their chances of long-term success and growth.
Register here: https://portal.smedan.gov.ng/signup
Top Benefits for MSMEs
1. Zero Cost CAC Registration
Eligible micro and small businesses receive free registration with the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC), courtesy of the partnership between CAC and SMEDAN.
2. Inclusion in SMEDAN’s MSME Database
Registered businesses are added to SMEDAN’s official MSME database — an important asset when applying for grants, loans, capacity-building opportunities, training, and market linkages.
3. Access to Aftercare Support
Once formalised, enterprises may qualify for government and private sector programmes, including business development services, technical support, and network opportunities.
4. Enhanced Credibility & Legal Recognition
A CAC-registered business enjoys better credibility with customers, suppliers, and potential financiers, making it easier to grow operations and participate in larger markets.
Who Qualifies (Eligibility)
This free registration campaign is designed for:
- Nano, micro, and small enterprises in Nigeria that are not yet registered with CAC.
- MSMEs already in SMEDAN’s database but without a CAC business name registration, these will also automatically qualify for the free CAC registration drive.
- Informal business owners seeking legal recognition and formalisation across sectors.
Registration is first come, first served until all 250,000 slots are filled.
How to Apply (Step-by-Step)
- Go to the SMEDAN Portal:
Visit the official registration portal at https://portal.smedan.gov.ng/signup. - Create an Account:
Enter your first name, last name, email address, and password to sign up. - Complete Your Business Profile:
Provide accurate details about your business — name, address, sector, contact information, and any existing CAC status. - Submit the Form:
Double-check your information and click Register to complete your SMEDAN profile. - Free CAC Registration Steps:
After enrolling with SMEDAN, you will be guided on next steps for completing your free CAC business name registration as part of the initiative.
Tip: If you are not familiar with online systems, SMEDAN State Offices and business clinics across Nigeria can assist with in-person onboarding into the portal.
Helpful Tips for Applicants
1 Prepare basic details first: Have your business name, contact info, and any identification (like NIN, national ID, or voter’s card) ready before registering.
2. Register early: Free slots are limited and allocated on a first-come, first-served basis.
3. Leverage your SMEDAN registration: Use your database listing and eventual CAC certificate to qualify for training,
