How to Apply for SMEDAN Free Business Registration With CAC

The Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC) and SMEDAN have launched a programme to provide free business name registration for 250,000 nano, micro, and small enterprises in Nigeria. The free business name registration drive is designed to strengthen Nigeria’s MSME ecosystem by promoting formalization and reducing barriers to growth, in line with the Federal Government’s Renewed Hope vision.

The SMEDAN free CAC registration program offers free registration and certification for businesses to enable them gain access to aftercare services and opportunities such as grants, capacity-building programmes, technical support, and market linkages.

What is CAC, and Why Do You Need to Register With Them?

The Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC) is the government agency responsible for regulating the formation and management of companies in Nigeria. It was established under the Companies and Allied Matters Act (CAMA) in 1990 and is responsible for registering and regulating companies and businesses in Nigeria.

The main reason why you need to register your company with the CAC is that it is a legal requirement. All companies and businesses operating in Nigeria are required by law to register with the CAC. Failure to do so can result in hefty fines, legal action, and even the closure of your business.

CAC registration also provides legal protection for your company’s name and brand, making it easier to protect your intellectual property and prevent others from using your name or logo without your permission

Benefits of SMEDAN Free CAC Registration

The Federal Government SMEDAN Free CAC Registration will provide you with the following benefits;

• Free registration process for SMEDAN and CAC.
• Certification at no cost.
• Saves you ₦11,000 – the cost of registering a business name on CAC portal
• You will gain access to aftercare services and opportunities such as grants, capacity-building programmes, technical support, and market linkages.
• Lowering barriers and creating an enabling environment for you as an entrepreneur.

Document Required for SMEDAN CACFree Business Registration

To successfully register your business name with the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC), you must provide both documents and basic information about yourself and your business. These include a:

1. Valid Means of Identification (any of the following):

• National Identification Number (NIN) slip or card
• International Passport
• Driver’s License
• Permanent Voter’s Card

2. Passport Photograph – recent and clear digital copy

3. Signature Specimen – scanned or photographed

4. Proof of Address – utility bill, tenancy agreement, or any official document showing your current address

Who can Apply for SMEDAN Free Business Registration

To be considered for the Federal Government SMEDAN Free CAC Registration, you must:

• Be a Nigerian citizen.
• Have a valid National Identification Number (NIN)
• Have a business with a valid address currently running in Nigeria.
• MSMEs already on SMEDAN’s database without CAC registration automatically qualify for this free registration drive.

How to Apply for SMEDAN Free Business Registration

1. Go to portal.smedan.gov.ng and fill out the registration form.
2. Create an Account with SMEDAN: Register by providing your name, email and a secure password.
3. Fill out the registration form: Complete all required fields accurately such as business information, business descriptions, and business owner information.
4. Upload necessary documents: Upload required documents like ID, proof of address on the portal.
5. Confirm your information before submitting:Review every entry and uploaded file for accuracy and completeness, correct any errors, then submit the form to finalize your free business registration.

Note:

• Ensure you are in SMEDAN’s database and do not already have CAC registration.
• SMEDAN will guide beneficiaries through completing CAC business name registration free of charge.
• Monitor communication from SMEDAN for when your registration is processed and finalized.