BUSINESS
HOW TO APPLY FOR FREE CAC REGISTRATION UNDER FG’S 250,000 MSME PROGRAMME
The Federal Government has launched a nationwide initiative to provide free Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC) business name registration for 250,000 Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) through a partnership between the Small and Medium Enterprises Development Agency of Nigeria (SMEDAN) and the CAC.
The programme is designed to help small businesses formalise their operations, improve access to financing, and qualify for government support initiatives.
Who is eligible?
The initiative is open to nano, micro and small businesses that are not yet registered with the Corporate Affairs Commission. Businesses that already have CAC registration are not eligible for the free registration exercise.
How to apply
- Visit the official SMEDAN registration portal.
- Create an account using your email address and phone number.
- Complete your personal and business profile.
- Register your business and obtain your SMEDAN Unique Identification Number (SUIN).
- If asked whether your business has a CAC registration, select “No” if it is not registered.
- Submit your application for verification.
- Eligible applicants will receive instructions on completing their free CAC business name registration.
Benefits of the programme
Successful applicants will receive free CAC business name registration, enabling them to operate legally and gain access to government grants, loans, training programmes, business support services, and other opportunities available to registered businesses.
Requirements
Applicants should have the following ready before applying:
- National Identification Number (NIN)
- Active phone number
- Valid email address
- Proposed business name
- Business address
- Brief description of the business
The registration is available nationwide but is limited to 250,000 MSMEs. Interested entrepreneurs are encouraged to apply early before the available slots are exhausted.