SMBs in India Set for Aggressive Expansion

May 21, 2026

Bredin’s latest survey finds that SMBs in India are the most optimistic compared with their peers in the U.S., UK, and Germany. While they face common challenges like inflation and competition, India-based SMBs have high revenue expectations and ambitious hiring plans for 2026.

SMBs in India: Key findings

  • Optimism: 93% expect revenue to increase in 2026.
  • Operational status: Two out of five are actively growing.
  • Hiring outlook: 83% plan to increase full-time headcount this year.
  • Business challenges: Inflation and competition are the #1 challenges.
  • Purchasing preferences: Transparent pricing and value are top purchase considerations.

Growth outlook

‍The vast majority of India-based SMBs expect revenue increases in 2026. Close to four in ten anticipate revenue to grow by 50% this year.

‍How do you expect your 2026 revenue to compare to 2025?

Current operating status

‍To generate more revenue, 42% of SMBs in India are actively growing and pursuing new opportunities, more than in the US, UK, or Germany. Another 18% are investing selectively.

‍How your business is operating right now?

12-month headcount plans

‍In support of growth, more than four in five Indian SMBs plan to increase their full-time headcount; three in five plan to increase part-time staff and contractors. This rate of hiring outpaces the UK, Germany, and the U.S., where 2026 full-time hiring is planned by 60%, 40%, and 34% of SMBs, respectively.

‍What are your company’s headcount plans for the next 12 months?

Biggest business challenges

‍Inflation and competition are top concerns, followed by AI adoption and usage.

‍What are your biggest business challenges?

What German SMBs want in a purchase

‍Buyers in India prioritize clear, transparent pricing, good value, and speed of delivery.

‍What are the most important characteristics of the way you get or buy products or services for your business?

Whether you need quick-turn data for international thought leadership or a deep-dive into the SMB buyer journey in a specific country, Bredin delivers actionable custom and omnibus research. Contact us to learn how we can support your 2026 GTM, product, content, PR, social, and sales goals.