The Small and Medium Enterprises Development Agency of Nigeria (SMEDAN) has partnered with the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC) to offer free business name registration for 250,000 micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) across Nigeria.
This initiative removes the usual registration cost, a key barrier that keeps many businesses informal, and helps entrepreneurs gain credibility, access support services, and position their ventures for growth.
Formal business registration is often the first step toward accessing finance, government support, grants, and market opportunities. Many small business owners in Nigeria avoid official registration due to fees and procedures that can be confusing or burdensome. By waiving the business name registration fee, normally around ₦22,000 — this program aims to bring more enterprises into the formal economy, making them eligible for various aftercare services and support interventions.
Top Benefits for MSMEs
✔ 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.
✔ 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.
✔ Access to Aftercare Support
Once formalised, enterprises may qualify for government and private sector programmes, including business development services, technical support, and network opportunities.
✔ 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
✔ Prepare basic details first: Have your business name, contact info, and any identification (like NIN, national ID, or voter’s card) ready before registering.
✔ Register early: Free slots are limited and allocated on a first-come, first-served basis.
✔ Leverage your SMEDAN registration: Use your database listing and eventual CAC certificate to qualify for training, financing, and government support programs.
How to Apply
👉 Register here: https://portal.smedan.gov.ng/signup