For small and medium-sized UK-based consultancies, Ascendia’s Launchpad offers an efficient way to establish a design and engineering presence in India with minimal risk and maximum control. However, once your offshore team grows beyond 30+ employees, we recommend transitioning to a Global Capability Center  through our GCCaaS offering for greater operational independence, cost optimization, and strategic growth.

Why Transition to GCCaaS?

While the Launchpad model provides an agile setup for small teams, a GCCaaS framework offers:

• Enhanced Scalability – A fully structured offshore team capable of handling diverse project demands.

• Operational Autonomy – Greater control over workflows, quality standards, and business processes.

• Optimized Costs – Leveraging economies of scale as your team size increases.

• Long-term Sustainability – Establishing a more permanent presence with dedicated infrastructure and talent.

How Ascendia Facilitates a Seamless Transition

Once your team reaches a critical mass of 30+ employees, Ascendia ensures a seamless transition from Launchpad to a full-fledged GCC through the following key steps:

1. Legal & Compliance Setup

• Entity Structuring: We help determine the best operational model—wholly owned subsidiary, joint venture, or a managed GCC.

• Regulatory Compliance: Ensuring alignment with Indian corporate, labor, and tax laws, including FDI compliance and statutory registrations.

• Contractual Transition: Migrating from employer-of-record (EOR) contracts to a fully owned entity framework.

2. Infrastructure & Operations Management

• Office Setup: Scaling from co-working Launchpad environments to dedicated office spaces with tailored infrastructure.

• IT & Security: Implementing cybersecurity protocols, data protection measures, and IT integrations aligned with UK and global standards.

• HR & Payroll Administration: Setting up an internal HR structure, localized benefits, and a seamless payroll processing system.

3. Talent Management & Workforce Optimization

• Direct Hiring & Talent Development: Enabling you to recruit talent directly while still leveraging Ascendia’s hiring expertise.

• Upskilling Programs: Regular training, leadership development, and domain-specific learning initiatives.

• Performance & Retention Strategies: Structured appraisal mechanisms, competitive compensation models, and growth pathways.

4. Financial & Taxation Strategy

• Cost Structuring: Optimizing cost efficiencies in payroll, taxation, and operational expenses.

• Taxation Compliance: Ensuring adherence to Indian corporate tax, transfer pricing regulations, and GST filings.

• Financial Reporting: Establishing transparent and UK-compliant accounting & auditing frameworks.

5. Strategic Expansion & Autonomy

• Business Process Integration: Aligning your UK and Indian operations for seamless collaboration.

• Branding & Cultural Alignment: Creating an India-based corporate identity aligned with your UK headquarters.

• Leadership & Management Support: Setting up local management teams for smoother operations.

Are you ready for GCC?

Transitioning from Launchpad to GCC is a natural step for consultancies looking to strengthen their global operations. With Ascendia handling all complexities—legal, financial, operational, and HR-related—you can focus entirely on scaling your consultancy with a high-performing, cost-efficient offshore team.

If your consultancy is ready to scale, let’s discuss how we can help you build a robust and self-sustaining Global Capability Center in India.