How to Get a Loan Through SMEDAN

Small and Medium Enterprises Development Agency of Nigeria (SMEDAN) plays a pivotal role in nurturing MSMEs across the country—not by lending directly, but by facilitating access to finance, training, and business development support. Below is a step‑by‑step guide on how to tap into SMEDAN’s funding ecosystem, plus a list of related topics that may warrant their own deep‑dive blog posts.

1. Understand SMEDAN’s Role

  • Facilitator, Not Direct Lender
    SMEDAN does not disburse loans from its own coffers. Instead, it:

    • Registers and profiles MSMEs

    • Connects you to partner financial institutions and government schemes

    • Provides capacity‑building (training, mentorship) that many funders require

2. Register Your Business with SMEDAN

  1. Go to smedanregister.ng (SMEDAN registration online)

  2. Complete the form to receive your unique SMEDAN ID/certificate number

  3. Benefits of registration:

    • Eligibility alerts for grants and loans

    • Access to training programs

    • Inclusion in the national MSME database

3. Complete Required Training

Many SMEDAN‑facilitated schemes mandate participation in an Entrepreneurship Development Institute (EDI) program:

  • SMEDAN Training Programs: Workshops on business planning, bookkeeping, digital marketing, etc.

  • SMEDAN EDI List: Approved training providers across Nigeria

  • How to register for SMEDAN training: Sign up via the SMEDAN portal or through your nearest EDI

4. Apply to Specific Loan & Grant Schemes

Once registered and trained, you can apply for these SMEDAN‑partnered initiatives:

Scheme Target Amount Features
SMEDAN Conditional Grant Scheme Nano businesses
Grant, no repayment
SMEDAN–Sterling Bank Partnership Small & micro
Single‑digit interest, collateral‑free
SMEDAN–Jaiz Bank Matching Fund Sharia‑compliant MSMEs Varies Non‑interest financing


5. Leverage SMEDAN for Other Loan Programs

Beyond its own partnerships, SMEDAN can guide you through:

  • AGSMEIS Loan Application via accredited EDIs

  • Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) SME Schemes

  • Bank of Industry (BOI) & Bank of Agriculture (BOA) Loans


6. Meet General Eligibility Requirements

While specifics vary by program, you’ll generally need:

  • Business Registration: Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC) certificate

  • SMEDAN ID: Proof of portal registration

  • Business Plan: Clear use‑of‑funds and revenue projections

  • Bank Verification Number (BVN) & Tax Identification Number (TIN)

  • Business Bank Account (with transaction history for larger loans)

  • Training Certificate: From SMEDAN or approved EDI

  • MSME Classification: Micro (1–9 staff), Small (10–49), Medium (50–250)

7. Next Steps & Tips

  1. Network at SMEDAN Events: Meet partners and learn about upcoming calls.

  2. Prepare a Solid Pitch Deck: Many partner banks require a concise presentation.

  3. Maintain Good Records: Timely tax filings and clean bank statements boost credibility.