Developing a Grounded Theory-Based Paradigm Model for the Innovation Ecosystem in Iran’s Sports Services Industry

Abstract

This study aimed to develop a grounded theory-based paradigm model for the development of the innovation ecosystem in Iran’s sports services industry. This qualitative study was conducted using the systematic grounded theory approach proposed by Strauss and Corbin. The participants included university faculty members, senior managers of the Ministry of Sport and Youth, managers of knowledge-based companies, sport start-ups, incubators and accelerators, investors, and researchers active in innovation and sports services. Sampling began purposively and continued through theoretical and snowball sampling until theoretical saturation was achieved. In total, 20 in-depth semi-structured interviews were conducted. Data were analyzed concurrently with data collection through open, axial, and selective coding using the constant comparative method. To enhance credibility, the extracted findings and categories were reviewed by 10 experts. Coding dependability was also assessed through inter-coder agreement, which yielded an overall agreement rate of 91%. Data analysis resulted in the extraction of 154 open codes, 22 subcategories, and one core category. The causal conditions included increasing turbulence and complexity in the sports business environment, acceleration of digital and technological transformation, and weak institutional infrastructure for converting knowledge into innovation. The contextual conditions comprised actor diversity, institutional capacity, interaction and networking infrastructure, learning capacity, and environmental characteristics. The intervening conditions included macro-environmental instability, weak governance, financial limitations, cultural barriers, and knowledge and technological constraints. The main strategies were the development of collaboration and value co-creation networks, intelligent governance, sustainable investment, human capital development, and digital transformation. The consequences included improved competitiveness, strengthened innovation and social capital, technological advancement, and an enhanced national and international position for the sports services industry. The development of the innovation ecosystem in Iran’s sports services industry is a network-based, multilevel, and context-dependent process that requires institutional coordination, effective collaboration among actors, sustainable financing, stronger human and technological capabilities, and participatory governance.