2026 outlook: What SMEs must act on now
For businesses around the world, disruption isn’t new – but the margin for hesitation has never been smaller.
The operating environment is more complex, more digital and far less forgiving than before. And the message is clear: the next 12 months will separate organisations that act decisively from those that fall behind.
As the new year begins, we asked leaders across our global network what small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs)need to prepare for most urgently.
Their answers were consistent: harnessing AI securely, attracting and retaining scarce talent and navigating volatility with greater resilience and focus.
- Practical artificial intelligence (AI) adoption and cybersecurity readiness.
- Invest in upskilling and flexible work models to attract scarce skills.
- Prepare for ongoing domestic and international tariff uncertainty and complex compliance demands.
“Competitiveness now depends on better data and sharper execution.”
Improve forecast reliability through stronger data foundations.
Embed AI and digitalisation across core business processes.
Transform human resource strategies to stay agile in a more international and competitive market.
“Strategy needs a reset – and technology must sit at the core.”
Reframe growth for a new global reality.
Prioritise regional strength and supply chains.
Treat technology as the backbone of today’s and tomorrow’s business.
Address skilled labour shortages in key industries.
Strengthen financial resilience amid uncertainty.
Accelerate digitisation and cybersecurity.
Advance sustainability strategies while managing high input costs and ongoing economic uncertainties such as tariffs.
Prepare for deeper customer data demands around environmental, social and governance and corporate social responsibility reporting.
Strengthen identity, endpoint and backup cyber controls.
Strengthen your capabilities to reliably deliver on your promise.
“Sustainable growth requires discipline and structure.”
Build long-term strategic clarity.
Professionalise leadership and governance.
Enforce cash-flow discipline and regulatory compliance.
Digitise or outsource routine functions to focus on core strengths.
