The Office of the Registrar of Companies (ORC) is encouraging Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) operating outside the formal sector to take advantage of what it describes as a simple and affordable business registration process to formalise their operations.
According to the ORC, entrepreneurs can register a sole proprietorship business for as little as GH¢130, a move the office says can position businesses for growth and access to opportunities within the formal economy.
Speaking on the on-air series of the 2026 Citi Business Festival with Nii Larte Lartey, Assistant Chief Compliance Inspector at the Office of the Registrar of Companies, Frank Opoku-Darko, said many small businesses wrongly assume that business registration is expensive and difficult.
“With a sole proprietorship with just GH¢130, you can register your business,” he stated.
Mr. Darko explained that prospective business owners only need a Ghana Card and a Tax Identification Number (TIN) to begin the registration process.
“The first most important document when it comes to business registration is the Ghana card and the TIN,” he said.
The ORC maintains that formalising businesses is a critical step towards improving record keeping, enhancing credibility and creating opportunities for expansion.
Mr. Darko further disclosed that the process of securing a business name has been simplified, with applicants receiving almost immediate confirmation on the availability of their preferred names.
“When you come with a name, we advise that you come with three set of names. We will conduct a search on the name to see whether the name is available before you’ll be able to use it,” he explained.
Asked how long the process takes, he responded: “Instant. At the click of the button, we’ll see whether the name exists or not.”
The ORC believes increased formalisation of small businesses will strengthen Ghana’s private sector, improve compliance and support the long-term sustainability of enterprises operating across the country.
The 2026 Citi Business Festival is powered by 97.3 Citi FM as well as Channel One Television in partnership with ABSA Bank and sponsored by MTN, Zonda Tec Ghana Limited as well as Petra Trust.
