The Federal Government of Nigeria has officially launched the Free CAC Registration 2026 initiative to support 250,000 Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) across the country.
The program, implemented through the Small and Medium Enterprises Development Agency of Nigeria (SMEDAN) in partnership with the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC), enables eligible businesses to register their business names completely free of charge.
What is Free CAC Registration 2026?
Free CAC Registration 2026 is a federal government program that pays the official CAC business name registration fees for qualified MSMEs.
Instead of paying registration costs, successful applicants receive:
- Free Business Name registration
- Official CAC certificate
- Business formalisation support
- Business development training
- Access to government intervention programmes
- Better access to loans and grants
- Improved credibility with customers and financial institutions
The programme is expected to formalise 250,000 businesses nationwide.
Who Can Apply?
You may qualify if you operate a:
- Small business
- Micro business
- Nano business
- Startup
- Sole proprietorship
- Local enterprise
You are especially encouraged to apply if your business:
- Does not already have a CAC Business Name registration
- Is registered on SMEDAN but has not completed CAC registration
- Operates legally within Nigeria
Businesses already registered with SMEDAN but without CAC registration may automatically qualify.
How to Apply for Free CAC Registration 2026
Follow these simple steps.
Step 1: Visit the Portal
Go to the official SMEDAN registration portal and register. https://portal.smedan.gov.ng/signup
Step 2: Create a Free CAC Login Account
Provide:
- Full name
- Email address
- Phone number
- Password
This creates your Free CAC login account.
Step 3: Complete Your Business Information
Fill in:
- Business name
- Business address
- Nature of business
- State
- Local Government Area
- Other requested information
Ensure all information is accurate.
Step 4: Select CAC Registration Status
When asked whether your business already has a CAC registration number:
Choose:
No
This confirms that you are applying under the Free CAC Registration 2026 programme.
Step 5: Review Your Application
Double-check every detail before submitting.
Incorrect information may delay approval.
Step 6: Submit
After submission, SMEDAN will review your application.
Successful applicants will receive further instructions regarding their free Business Name registration.
