The Federal Government has opened applications for free CAC registration under its 250,000 MSME programme, giving eligible Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) the opportunity to register their businesses at no cost.
The initiative, approved by President Bola Tinubu, is being implemented through the Small and Medium Enterprises Development Agency of Nigeria (SMEDAN) in partnership with the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC). It is aimed at helping nano, micro and small businesses join Nigeria’s formal economy without paying business registration fees.
Who Can Apply for the Free CAC Registration?
Under the programme, 250,000 eligible businesses will receive free Business Name registration through the Corporate Affairs Commission, with the Federal Government covering the statutory registration costs.
In addition to free registration, successful applicants will benefit from business development support, technical training and access to opportunities that can help improve business growth and sustainability.
The programme was announced during the 8th National MSME Awards held at the State House in Abuja.
How to Apply for Free CAC Registration
Business owners interested in the programme can apply by following these steps:
- Visit the official SMEDAN portal.
- Create an account using your name, email address, phone number and a password.
- Complete the MSME registration form with accurate business information.
- When asked if your business already has a CAC registration number, select “No” if it is not yet registered.
- Review all the information provided before submitting your application.
- Wait for a confirmation message from SMEDAN if your application is successful.
Businesses that are already registered on the SMEDAN database but do not have a CAC Business Name registration may also qualify for the programme automatically.
What Successful Applicants Will Receive
Successful applicants will receive:
- Free Business Name registration through the Corporate Affairs Commission.
- Technical and entrepreneurial training.
- Business development support.
- Access to government programmes and business growth opportunities.
The government said the initiative is designed to remove the financial burden associated with business registration while encouraging more entrepreneurs to operate within Nigeria’s formal business environment.
FG Targets More Formal Businesses
The free CAC registration programme follows a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed between SMEDAN and the Corporate Affairs Commission to formalise 250,000 nano, micro and small businesses across Nigeria.
According to the Presidency, the initiative will make it easier for small businesses to access formal banking services, government support programmes and investment opportunities by becoming officially registered.
The Federal Government says the programme forms part of President Tinubu’s broader efforts to support entrepreneurship, create jobs and strengthen the growth of small businesses across the country.
