Identifying the effective factors of sports entrepreneurship in Iran

The main purpose of this study was to identify the effective factors of sports entrepreneurship in Iran. The type of research was fundamental and qualitative. The statistical population consisted of 16 different experts. Sampling was performed using purposive sampling method. To collect data in this study, theoretical foundations were used first and because the topics were not enough, semi-structured interviews were used. In this study, qualitative analysis approaches including open, axial and selective coding were used to analyze the research findings. The results of open coding indicated that 110 initial codes were obtained from the analysis of interviews and documents. The results of axial coding showed that 15 categories were obtained from this coding. Finally, the findings of selective coding included 4 concepts (inhibitory factors, facilitating factors, developmental factors and consequences). The results of the codings showed that the sports entrepreneurship program in Iran is based on various factors. Therefore, when the mechanism of action of these factors is properly identified and diagnosed, we can see the growth and development of sports entrepreneurship program in Iran. Considering these cases, a bright future can be imagined for the sports entrepreneurship program in Iran. Since, from the experts' point of view, the lack of communication between universities and production and industrial centers is considered as one of the important factors. It is suggested that the necessary measures be taken to establish a favorable relationship between the university and industry through the proper education of students in accordance with the needs of industry.