FG opens free CAC registration for 250,000 MSMEs

The Federal Government of Nigeria has commenced applications for the free registration of 250,000 Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs), offering thousands of entrepreneurs the opportunity to formalise their businesses at no cost.

The initiative, being implemented by the Small and Medium Enterprises Development Agency of Nigeria (SMEDAN) in partnership with the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC), is designed to remove one of the major barriers facing small business owners—the cost of business registration.

Approved by President Bola Tinubu, the programme will see the Federal Government cover the statutory CAC Business Name registration fees for successful applicants, enabling eligible nano, micro and small businesses to become legally recognised without incurring registration costs.

According to The Punch, the initiative is expected to encourage more entrepreneurs to join Nigeria's formal economy and improve access to government support and financial services.

Boosting Business Growth

Formal business registration is a key requirement for accessing government grants, loans, contracts, banking services and investment opportunities. However, many small businesses remain unregistered due to the associated costs.

Through the programme, the Federal Government aims to enhance business credibility, promote financial inclusion and create pathways for long-term growth.

The initiative was unveiled by the Presidency during the 8th National MSME Awards held at the State House in Abuja on June 27, 2026. In addition to free CAC registration, beneficiaries will receive business development support, technical training and other capacity-building programmes to strengthen their enterprises.

How to Apply

Interested business owners can apply through the official SMEDAN registration portal by following these steps:

Visit the official SMEDAN registration portal.

Create an account using your full name, email address, phone number and a password.

Complete the MSME registration form with accurate business details.

When asked whether your business already has a CAC registration number, select "No."

 Review your application carefully before submitting it.

Await notification from SMEDAN if your application is successful.

Successful applicants will receive further instructions on completing their free Business Name registration with the Corporate Affairs Commission.

Eligibility

The programme is open to nano, micro and small businesses that have not yet been registered with the Corporate Affairs Commission.

Entrepreneurs who are already registered on the SMEDAN database but do not have a CAC registration may also qualify, provided they meet the programme's requirements.

The initiative is expected to benefit businesses across various sectors of the economy, including retail, agriculture, manufacturing, technology and the creative industry.

The programme follows a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed between SMEDAN and the Corporate Affairs Commission to facilitate the formal registration of 250,000 businesses nationwide.

According to the Presidency, President Tinubu approved the initiative as part of broader efforts to reduce regulatory barriers for small businesses and increase their participation in Nigeria's formal financial and regulatory system.

Economic Impact

The Federal Government believes the initiative will enable more entrepreneurs to access financing, expand their operations, improve regulatory compliance and contribute more effectively to economic growth.

It also expects that bringing more businesses into the formal sector will strengthen economic planning, improve business data and broaden the country's tax base.

With applications now open, eligible business owners have been advised to apply early, as only 250,000 businesses will benefit from the free CAC registration programme.