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Setting Up a GCC in India: A Step-by-Step Guide for MNCs

The idea to set up GCC in India has become one of the most effective strategies for multinational corporations (MNCs) looking to enhance their global operations. These centers act as vital hubs for managing core business functions such as research and development (R&D), information technology (IT), finance, human resources (HR), and customer support. The benefits of establishing a GCC in India extend far beyond cost reduction. It offers access to one of the world’s largest talent pools, a supportive regulatory environment, and cutting-edge infrastructure.

India is home to more than 1,580 GCCs, employing over 1.66 million professionals, and continues to attract MNCs looking to tap into its resources. In 2023 alone, India added more than 60 new GCCs, demonstrating the sustained growth and confidence in the Indian market. According to estimates, this number will only increase, making India the primary destination for companies seeking to set up their Global Capability Centres.

At the forefront of GCC setups is Sparklehood, an industry leader known for providing end-to-end solutions that help MNCs set up and scale their GCCs in India. Sparklehood not only ensures a smooth setup but also delivers unmatched value, from market research and location selection to talent acquisition and operational management.

GCC Setup

Sharing our insights from helping top companies in India, the Middle East & Singapore hire from our network of 5000+ Senior Professionals.

Step 1: Understanding GCCs and Why to Set up GCC in India

What is a GCC?

A Global Capability Centre (GCC) is a specialized offshore unit established by an MNC to perform core business functions and deliver services internally. These centers operate as extensions of the parent company, allowing for greater control over processes while capitalizing on local talent and infrastructure. Unlike traditional outsourcing, where third-party vendors handle operations, GCCs are wholly owned and integrated into the global operations of the MNC.

Why India?

India's prominence in the global business landscape has grown considerably over the past two decades, especially in the IT and services sectors. The country’s exceptional talent pool, cost advantages, favorable business climate, and advanced technology infrastructure make it the top destination for setting up a GCC.

Here’s why India continues to be the preferred choice:

  • Highly Skilled Talent Pool: India produces around 1.5 million engineers each year, with a large portion specializing in fields like IT, software development, and engineering. This talent pool makes India a global powerhouse for tech innovation. Moreover, 60% of India’s top STEM graduates opt to work in GCCs, bringing innovation and a problem-solving mindset to the table.
  • Cost Advantages: Setting up and operating a GCC in India is cost-effective compared to other regions like the U.S. or Europe. MNCs can save 30-50% on operational costs, which includes salaries, infrastructure, and administrative expenses. This makes India one of the most attractive markets for companies looking to optimize their budgets while maintaining high-quality standards.
  • Government Policies: The Indian government has introduced several initiatives that promote foreign investment and business development, including Make in India, Digital India, and Startup India. These initiatives provide tax benefits, streamlined processes, and incentives for MNCs that wish to set up GCCs.
  • Strategic Location: India’s geographical positioning makes it ideal for serving both the Eastern and Western markets. Its time zone allows for overlapping business hours with regions like Europe, the Middle East, Africa, and the U.S., making it an ideal base for global operations.

Sparklehood helps MNCs leverage these benefits by providing specialized support throughout the GCC setup process, from market research to operations management. With its deep expertise and network of industry professionals, Sparklehood positions itself as the go-to partner for setting up successful GCCs in India.

Step 2: Market Research and Feasibility Analysis

Before embarking on a GCC setup, MNCs must conduct thorough market research and feasibility analysis. This ensures that the decision to invest in a GCC is backed by data-driven insights, helping companies understand economic trends, talent availability, and operational challenges.

Economic Trends

India’s economy is on track to become the world’s third-largest by 2030, driven by rapid urbanization, a growing middle class, and advances in the tech sector. The IT-BPM (Business Process Management) industry alone is expected to surpass $350 billion by 2025, making it a key sector for GCC operations. Understanding these trends is crucial for MNCs aiming to tap into India’s dynamic economic environment.

MNCs setting up GCCs in India have realized up to a 40% improvement in operational efficiency, largely due to the favorable economic conditions and government incentives. Sparklehood ensures that MNCs are well-informed about the economic landscape and how it affects their GCC strategies, providing customized market insights for every client.

Choosing the Right Location

India's cities are diverse, each offering unique advantages based on the industry and operational requirements. Selecting the right location can significantly impact the success of a GCC. The top cities for setting up a GCC include:

  • Bengaluru: Often referred to as the "Silicon Valley of India," Bengaluru is the go-to destination for technology-driven industries, including artificial intelligence, machine learning, and software development. It boasts a strong ecosystem of startups and tech giants, creating a competitive and collaborative environment.
  • Hyderabad: Known for its IT and pharmaceutical industries, Hyderabad has emerged as a top choice for MNCs looking to focus on advanced engineering and research. The city’s infrastructure, skilled workforce, and government support make it ideal for GCCs focused on innovation.
  • Delhi NCR: A hub for consulting, finance, and engineering firms, Delhi NCR provides access to a diverse talent pool and proximity to key government and business bodies. Its wide range of industries and robust infrastructure make it an attractive choice for MNCs.
  • Mumbai: India’s financial capital is perfect for companies in the banking, insurance, and finance sectors. With its strong presence in financial services, Mumbai offers a vast network of professionals and institutions that support GCC operations.

Sparklehood’s extensive knowledge of these regions allows it to help MNCs choose the most strategic locations based on industry, growth potential, and operational needs. From location scouting to infrastructure setup, Sparklehood provides a comprehensive solution for GCC setup.

GCC Setup Location

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Step 3: Legal and Regulatory Framework

Navigating India’s legal and regulatory framework is a crucial step in the GCC setup process. MNCs must understand the various types of entities they can establish, FDI regulations, and compliance requirements specific to their industry.

Types of Entities

MNCs have several options when setting up a GCC in India:

  • Wholly-Owned Subsidiary: This structure provides full control over the entity's operations and is the most common choice for MNCs setting up GCCs.
  • Branch Office: Suitable for companies looking to perform R&D or marketing activities without directly engaging in commercial operations. Branch offices are an ideal option for testing the market.
  • Liaison Office: Primarily used for establishing a presence in India, liaison offices are not permitted to engage in commercial activities but can serve as a bridge between the parent company and Indian operations.


Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) Regulations

India permits 100% FDI in most sectors, allowing foreign businesses to establish full ownership of their operations. Sectors like IT, retail, and e-commerce benefit from this ease of investment. However, industries like defense and pharmaceuticals may require government approval for certain investments. Staying compliant with FDI regulations is critical for smooth operations.

Sparklehood ensures that MNCs are fully compliant with India's regulatory framework, from FDI approvals to tax regulations. Our legal experts provide continuous support to help businesses avoid potential pitfalls and ensure a smooth setup.

Step 4: Infrastructure Setup

A strong infrastructure is the backbone of any successful GCC. India offers a wide range of facilities, including Special Economic Zones (SEZs), IT parks, and commercial spaces, all equipped with modern amenities to support global operations.

Office Space and Facilities

Choosing the right office space is essential for operational success. SEZs, in particular, offer benefits like tax holidays, reduced customs duties, and simplified processes for imports and exports. IT parks in cities like Bengaluru and Hyderabad provide world-class infrastructure tailored for tech-driven operations.

Sparklehood helps MNCs identify and secure office spaces that meet their operational requirements, whether they need cutting-edge technology infrastructure or proximity to talent pools.

Technology Infrastructure

With over 800 million internet users and advanced 5G technology, India’s IT infrastructure is among the best in the world. This makes it ideal for running complex operations, such as data processing, cloud computing, and AI research. As the leading GCC setup provider, Sparklehood ensures that MNCs have access to high-quality IT solutions, cybersecurity protocols, and network infrastructure necessary for seamless operations.

Step 5: Talent Acquisition and Management

Hiring the Right Talent

India's immense talent pool is one of the primary reasons why MNCs choose to set up GCCs here. With more than 30% of the global workforce expected to come from India by 2030, the country is a goldmine for top talent across various industries.

Sparklehood’s executive search arm, Employ by Sparklehood, specializes in recruiting the top 2% of professionals for GCC roles. With an 82.3% success rate and an average time-to-hire of under 30 days, Employ ensures that MNCs can quickly fill crucial positions with the best talent. Krishna Reddy, an expert in this field, is one of the leading persons in the project.

Talent Retention Strategies

Retaining top-tier talent is equally important as recruiting them. Offering competitive salaries, career development opportunities, and a positive work culture are key strategies for retaining

skilled employees in India’s competitive job market. GCCs in India generally offer compensation packages that are 20-30% higher than local market standards to attract and retain professionals.

Sparklehood provides ongoing support in developing retention strategies that ensure high employee satisfaction and long-term success for GCCs.

Step 6: Managing Day-to-Day Operations

Once a GCC is set up, managing daily operations effectively is crucial for long-term success. This includes overseeing HR, IT, finance, and other core business functions. Sparklehood offers comprehensive operational management services that streamline processes and ensure that the GCC runs smoothly, aligned with the parent company’s objectives. Their services encompass strategic planning, team leadership, budget management, process optimization, quality control, and risk management. By leveraging these services, companies can focus on their core competencies while Sparklehood handles the intricacies of operational efficiency, ultimately driving growth and achieving sustainable success.

Compliance and Risk Management

India’s regulatory landscape is constantly evolving, making ongoing compliance an essential part of GCC operations. MNCs must adhere to local labor laws, tax regulations, and industry-specific guidelines to avoid legal complications. Sparklehood provides risk management services, helping companies stay compliant with all applicable regulations and mitigate risks.

Navigating complex regulatory requirements such as transfer pricing, SEZ (Special Economic Zone) regulations, labor laws, and data protection is crucial for GCCs. Sparklehood’s services include regular compliance audits, policy updates, and training programs to ensure that all employees are aware of the latest regulations. They also offer strategic advice on regulatory changes and their potential impact on business operations. By leveraging Sparklehood’s expertise, companies can focus on their core business activities while ensuring that they remain compliant and mitigate any potential risks associated with regulatory non-compliance.

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Conclusion: Sparklehood—Your Trusted Partner for GCC Setup in India

managing daily operations with GCC

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India's unique advantages make it the ideal destination for MNCs looking to set up a Global Capability Centre. From a rich talent pool to cost savings and cutting-edge infrastructure, the country offers all the essential ingredients for GCC success. However, setting up and managing a GCC in India comes with its own set of challenges, requiring in-depth knowledge of the market, legal requirements, and operational nuances.

As the industry leader in GCC setup, Sparklehood offers a comprehensive solution that takes MNCs from initial planning to full operational maturity. Our expertise in market research, talent acquisition, legal compliance, and operational management ensures that MNCs can set up their GCCs in India with confidence, efficiency, and long-term success.

Whether you're a tech giant, a financial powerhouse, or a healthcare innovator, Sparklehood is your go-to partner for building a successful GCC in India. Our tailored solutions, industry knowledge, and commitment to excellence ensure that your GCC becomes a driving force for global growth.

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