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Alumni Network · Entrepreneurship Support

Business Development Resources


Step-by-step guides, registration advice, funding options, and compliance tips to help you start, register, and scale your business in Nigeria's 2026 landscape.

Choose the Right Business Structure

Business Name (Enterprise/Sole Proprietorship)

  • Simple and low-cost registration via CAC.
  • No separate legal entity—owner personally liable for debts.
  • Profits taxed as personal income (PIT): 0% on first ₦800,000.
  • Best for micro/small solo operations.

Limited Liability Company (Ltd/Private Limited)

  • Separate legal entity—limited personal liability.
  • Small companies (turnover ≤₦100m + assets ≤₦250m) often 0% CIT & exempt from Development Levy.
  • Easier access to funding, contracts, and credibility.
  • Recommended for growth-oriented businesses.

Many alumni start with Business Name and upgrade to Ltd as revenue grows—enjoying tax savings and protection.

How to Register Your Business (CAC 2026 Process)

  1. Name Search & Reservation — Check availability on CAC portal; reserve name (₦500 fee).
  2. Prepare Documents — ID, passport photos, Memorandum & Articles of Association (for Ltd).
  3. Online Registration — Submit via cac.gov.ng; fees from ₦10,000 (Business Name) to ₦50,000+ (Ltd).
  4. Pay Stamp Duties & Fees — Electronic payment integrated.
  5. Obtain Certificate — Digital certificate issued within days.
  6. Post-Registration — Get TIN from NRS, open corporate bank account, register for VAT if needed.

Visit CAC Portal

Funding & Support Options for 2026

Government Grants & Loans

BOI loans, SMEDAN grants, AGSMEIS (up to ₦10m non-repayable for training-compliant businesses).

Bank Financing

Corporate accounts with overdrafts; CBN interventions for SMEs at single-digit rates.

Angel Investors & VC

Connect via alumni network; platforms like Venture Garden, EchoVC for tech/startups.

Incubators & Accelerators

CcHUB, Lagos Innovates, Tony Elumelu Foundation—mentorship + seed funding.

Crowdfunding

Platforms like FarmCrowdy, ThriveAgric, or Kickstarter for product-based ideas.

Alumni Network Support

Share ideas or seek partners/mentors within our 1998 set community.

Key Compliance Tips (2026 Tax Reforms)

  • Register for TIN immediately after CAC—mandatory for all transactions.
  • File annual returns on time (companies: March 31; individuals: June 30).
  • Track expenses for deductions; use accounting software.
  • If turnover >₦100m, register for VAT and file monthly.
  • Leverage small company exemptions if eligible—huge savings.
  • Implement e-invoicing for VAT compliance.
  • Keep records for 6 years; prepare for potential audits.
  • Consult professionals for complex structures or incentives.

Get Support from the Alumni Network

Share your business idea, seek mentorship, find partners, or request guidance from fellow alumni entrepreneurs.

Contact Business Desk