Strategic Entrepreneurship in Iranian Sports Tourism: Identifying Obstacles and Providing Operational Solutions

Document Type : Original Article

Authors

1 Department of Physical Education and Sport Sciences, Faculty of Physical Education, Shahrood University of Technology, Shahrood, Iran

2 Department of Sport Sciences, Faculty of Sport Sciences, University of Birjand, Birjand, Iran

Abstract

Background and Objective: Strategic entrepreneurship, as a new paradigm, can play a key role in removing obstacles and developing the Iranian sports tourism industry. Therefore, the aim of this research is to systematically identify the obstacles facing this type of entrepreneurship and provide operational solutions appropriate to the Iranian context.

Methodology: This research was conducted with a qualitative approach and content analysis method. Data were collected through in-depth semi-structured interviews with 11 experts and a targeted study of 10 scientific articles (with a systematic search in reputable domestic scientific databases). The coding process was carried out at three levels and its reliability was confirmed by the Holst agreement coefficient (0.88).

Findings: The research findings showed that the obstacles fall into six main categories: 1) macro and institutional environment 2) financial and economic, 3) human resources and management, 4) marketing and competitive, 5) social and cultural, and 6) technological. In contrast, comprehensive solutions were presented in four axes: 1) macro and institutional, 2) market development and branding, 3) business development and innovation, and 4) human resource development and collaboration. In general, the solutions presented in the four macro axes are a targeted and integrated response to the six barriers.

Discussion: The value of this research lies in moving from describing problems to designing a pragmatic strategic framework. By providing integrated and coordinated solutions, this framework draws a clear roadmap for policymakers, managers, and entrepreneurs in this field.

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History

  • Receive Date: 12 February 2026
  • Revise Date: 01 May 2026
  • Accept Date: 16 June 2026

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