Document Type : Original Article
Authors
1
Ph. D. student in Sports Management, Faculty of Sports Sciences, Isfahan Branch (Khorasgan), Islamic Azad
2
Associate professor on sport management, Sport Medicine Research Center, Najafabad Branch, Islamic Azad University, Najafabad, Iran
3
Professor of Sports Management, Karbala Faculty of Educational Sciences, Karbala University, Karbala, Iraq
4
Associate Professor of Sports Management, Faculty of Sports Sciences, Isfahan Branch (Khorasgan), Islamic Azad University, Isfahan, Iran
10.22034/scart.2025.142520.1631
Abstract
This study aimed to propose a model of socio-cultural factors influencing the sustainable development of sports entrepreneurship in Iraq. The research adopted a qualitative approach with thematic analysis. Participants included sports entrepreneurs, academic experts, and managers in Iraq's entrepreneurship sector. These individuals were selected based on their key roles in the development and management of sports entrepreneurship and their in-depth understanding of the challenges and opportunities related to sustainability in this field in Iraq. Sports entrepreneurs were chosen for their practical experience in creating and managing sports businesses, academic experts for their theoretical and research expertise in entrepreneurship and sustainable development, and sports managers for their managerial experience and policy-making knowledge in this domain. A purposive sampling method was used, and 17 participants were selected based on the principle of theoretical saturation. The research instrument consisted of exploratory (semi-structured) interviews. The validity of the instrument was confirmed based on sample credibility, expert opinion, and inter-rater agreement. Data were analyzed using the method proposed by Attride-Stirling (2001). Five overarching themes—economic, cultural, infrastructural, human resources, and managerial—along with 11 organizing themes and 49 basic themes, were identified as factors influencing the development of socio-cultural aspects of sports entrepreneurship in Iraq. Subsequently, the research model was formulated. This model can contribute to the sustainable and long-term development of sports entrepreneurship in Iraq and play a key role in the growth and stability of this sector within Iraqi society.
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