SMEDAN opens applications for Cluster Development Support Programme to boost MSMEs

The Federal Government, through the Small and Medium Enterprises Development Agency of Nigeria (SMEDAN), has opened applications for the Cluster Development Support (CDS) Programme. The initiative targets Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) operating within business clusters across Nigeria.

What the programme offers

SMEDAN said the CDS Programme is designed to improve the productivity, competitiveness, and sustainability of businesses. Successful applicants will gain access to shared infrastructure, business development services, financing opportunities, technology, and market support. The announcement comes shortly after the launch of the Federal Government’s CREDITCORP, which introduced a support scheme enabling Nigerians to access up to N1 million to acquire laptops, phones, and other digital devices.

Successful applicants will benefit from a wide range of support services, including business advisory services and mentorship, capacity-building and entrepreneurship training, access to funding and financing opportunities, shared production facilities and modern equipment, technology support to improve productivity, branding, packaging, and marketing assistance, product quality improvement support, help in obtaining regulatory certifications, improved access to local and international markets, and networking opportunities with industry stakeholders.

Who can apply

Applications are open to micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs), businesses operating within clusters, associations, or cooperatives, entrepreneurs seeking structured business support to expand production, and both formal and informal businesses across Nigeria. Examples of eligible clusters include tailoring and fashion hubs, agro-processing clusters, leatherworks, metal fabrication, and other industry-based business groups.

The agency noted that the programme offers small businesses an opportunity to strengthen operations, scale production through shared infrastructure, access government-backed business support, and expand into new markets. It also provides entrepreneurs with a pathway to build valuable partnerships within their industries and increase their chances of accessing financing and grants.

How to apply

Interested and eligible applicants can submit their applications through the official SMEDAN portal at smedan.gov.ng/our-programs/cluster-development-support-for-msmes. SMEDAN encouraged MSMEs across the country to apply and take advantage of the programme to boost productivity, improve product quality, and grow their businesses sustainably.

Legit.ng previously reported that the federal government has officially opened applications for the free registration of 250,000 Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs), giving thousands of Nigerian entrepreneurs a rare opportunity to formalise their businesses at no cost. The initiative, being implemented through SMEDAN in partnership with the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC), is aimed at eliminating one of the biggest financial hurdles faced by small business owners, the cost of business registration. Approved by President Bola Tinubu, the programme will see the Federal Government pay the statutory CAC Business Name registration fees for successful applicants, allowing eligible nano, micro and small businesses to become legally recognised without spending a kobo, according to a report by Punch.

For Nigerian businesses and consumers, the CDS Programme could lower production costs and improve product quality for locally made goods. If scaled successfully, this may reduce pressure on the naira by boosting local manufacturing and cutting reliance on imported alternatives.