How to Apply for Free CAC Registration Under FG’s 250,000 MSME Programme

The Federal Government has launched a nationwide programme to provide free registration for 250,000 Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) under the joint initiative of the Small and Medium Enterprises Development Agency of Nigeria (SMEDAN) and the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC).

Approved by President Bola Tinubu, the scheme is designed to eliminate the financial burden of business registration for eligible nano, micro and small businesses, thereby encouraging more entrepreneurs to participate in Nigeria’s formal economy.

Under the programme, successful applicants will receive free Business Name registration through the CAC, with the Federal Government covering all statutory fees. In addition, beneficiaries will gain access to technical training, business development support, and opportunities aimed at strengthening sustainability and growth.

The Presidency announced the initiative during the 8th National MSME Awards held at the State House, Abuja, on June 27.

How to Apply

1. Business owners interested in the programme should:
2. Visit the official SMEDAN portal at portal.smedan.gov.ng
3. Create an account with their personal details (name, email, phone number, password)
4. Complete the MSME registration form with accurate business information
5. Select “No” when asked if the business already has a CAC registration number
6. Review and submit the application
7. Await confirmation from SMEDAN if successful

Businesses already listed on the SMEDAN database but without CAC registration may automatically qualify. Approved applicants will be contacted with the next steps for their free CAC Business Name registration.

The initiative stems from a Memorandum of Understanding signed between CAC and SMEDAN to formalise 250,000 enterprises nationwide. According to the Presidency, the move aims to ease financial challenges for small-scale entrepreneurs and integrate them into Nigeria’s formal banking and regulatory ecosystem.

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