If you are starting a new business, you might be wondering what the difference is between a business name and a brand name. In this blog post, we will explain the key differences between these two terms and why they matter for your success.
We will also give you some tips on how to choose a good brand name and how to register your business name.
What is a business name?
A business name is a legal name that you use to register your business with the state and the federal government. It is the name that appears on your official documents, such as contracts, tax forms, bank accounts, and licenses. Your business name must be unique in your state and comply with the state’s naming rules. For example, if you form an LLC or a corporation, you must include the entity type (such as LLC or Inc.) in your business name.
To register a business name in Nigeria, there are two options around.
Option 1
(Do it yourself)
- Check the availability of your proposed name on the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC)website.
You cannot use a name that is already taken by another business. You can do a public search on the website to see if your name is free. This is the first step in the registration process. - Reserve your name with the CAC. After you have done a public search, you need to apply for an official confirmation and approval of your name by the CAC. You have to submit two names and pay the required fee. If your name is approved, you can proceed with the registration
- Fill out the registration form and provide the necessary documents. You have to give some details about your business, such as:
- The approved name
- The general nature of the business
- The full address of the main and any other branch offices
- The proposed date of starting the business
- Passport-size photos of the owners
- Proficiency certificate (if required)
- You have to pay the registration fee, print out the form, attach the photos, and sign it.
- Upload the form and documents to the CAC website. The CAC will review your application and if everything is in order, they will notify you that your business name has been registered.
- Get your certificate and other documents.
The following documents will be provided by the Corporate Affairs Commission:
- The original certificate of registration of your business name
- A certified copy of the application form for registration
- A certified copy of any other document submitted for registration
Option 2
(Get an agent to do it for you).
We can help you through the business name registration process, where we handle all the stress involved in it, while you focus on something else. If you would like to employ our service click here .
What is a brand name?
A brand name is a name that you use to market your products or services to your customers. It is the name that people associate with your business and what makes you stand out from your competitors. Your brand name can be the same as your business name, or it can be different. For example, Google is both the business name and the brand name of Alphabet Inc., but MailChimp is the brand name of The Rocket Science Group LLC.
Why are they important?
Your business name and your brand name are both important for your success because they represent your identity and reputation. Your business name establishes your legal existence and protects you from liability. Your brand name communicates your value proposition and builds trust and loyalty with your customers.
A good business name and a good brand name should be:
- Clear & Simple: They should convey what you do and who you are.
- Memorable: They should be easy to remember and pronounce.
- Unique: They should differentiate you from your competitors and avoid confusion.
- Meaningful: They should resonate with your target audience and reflect your mission and vision.
How to choose a good brand name?
Choosing a good brand name can be challenging, but it can also be fun and rewarding.
Here are some steps to follow:
- Brainstorm: Generate as many ideas as possible using keywords, synonyms, word combinations, acronyms, or invented words that relate to your business.
- Evaluate: Filter out the ideas that are too generic, too similar to existing brands, too hard to spell or say, or too negative or offensive.
- Test: Get feedback from potential customers, friends, family, or experts on how they perceive your brand name ideas. You can also use online tools to check for domain availability, trademark conflicts, or social media handles.
- Decide: Pick the best brand name idea that meets your criteria and reflects your personality.
A business name is a legal name that you use to register your business with the state and the federal government. It is the name that appears on your official documents, such as contracts, tax forms, bank accounts, and licenses. Your business name must be unique in your state and comply with the state’s naming rules. For example, if you form an LLC or a corporation, you must include the entity type (such as LLC or Inc.) in your business name.
How can we help?
We are a professional service that specializes in brand naming and business name registration.
Why choose us:
– A team of experts who can create catchy and creative brand names for any industry or niche
– Access to database of available domain names that match your brand names
– A network of reliable partners who can handle the legal aspects of registering your business name
– A portfolio of satisfied clients who have used our services to launch their successful businesses
To get started with registering your business name with CAC, Click here