According to the Zinnov ‘India Tier-II & Emerging City Analysis Report,’ Belgaum and Hubli have been recognized as key emerging cities within India’s Global Capability Center (GCC) ecosystem. The report highlights Belgaum and 19 other tier-2 cities with GCC presence.
It explores how these cities are becoming vital components of the broader GCC network, complementing primary hubs in Tier-I cities. This transition not only expands operational scopes but also enhances organizational capabilities, contributing to strategic resilience and operational efficiency.
Zinnov’s report serves as a crucial resource for business leaders and strategic planners contemplating the expansion or optimization of their GCCs. It offers insights into the growth dynamics and operational advantages of Tier-II and Tier-III cities in India, emphasizing their increasing relevance as strategic locations for GCCs. By leveraging these insights, organizations can make informed decisions regarding site selection, talent acquisition, and operational strategies, ultimately boosting their global competitiveness and innovation potential.
Since 2015, the number of GCCs in India has surged from over 1,000 to more than 1,600 by FY2023. This growth reflects a qualitative shift from basic operations to complex, multifunctional hubs, showcasing India’s emergence as a leader in innovation and operational excellence.
Tier-II and emerging cities like Belgaum and Hubli are becoming essential players in this landscape. With over 170 GCC units in FY2021 and a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 11%, these cities are on par with Tier-I cities in growth. By FY2023, they host more than 215 units, illustrating their potential as viable alternatives to saturated Tier-I markets.
In terms of talent availability, Belgaum ranks fourth and Hubli fifth among emerging cities, thanks to a strong presence of engineering colleges. The cities also excel in connectivity, with Belgaum positioned third and Hubli fourth in India for transport options, facilitating easier talent acquisition.
Belgaum and Hubli are recognized for their high quality of life, further attracting businesses and talent.
Founded in 2002, Zinnov is a global management consulting and strategy advisory firm with a presence in ten locations worldwide, including New York, Santa Clara, and Bangalore. Over the past 22 years, Zinnov has collaborated with global enterprises and Fortune 2000 companies, providing actionable insights across various domains.
Through its GCC Accelerator Platform (GAP) Practice, Zinnov partners with clients to derive strategic value from their GCCs. This includes identifying and operationalizing growth strategies that enhance efficiency, center maturity, and talent development.
Leveraging data, networks, and analyses, the GAP Practice enables GCC leaders to prioritize strategic initiatives and geo-specific insights, ultimately driving organizational value. Areas of expertise encompass growth operations, innovation collaboration, talent strategy, and technology automation.
Zinnov also offers thought leadership, providing customized perspectives on industry trends and challenges through research reports, presentations, and whitepapers, addressing the evolving landscape of GCCs.



















