Fatemeh Raeei, Alimohamad Safania, Abolfazl Farahani, Hamid Ghasemi,
Volume 14, Issue 27 (8-2024)
Abstract
In the sports industry, there is significant potential for the emergence of startups. However, startups in this sector have experienced various challenges and fluctuations. Therefore, the purpose of this study is to examine the factors that contribute to the acceleration of Sports Startups. The research was conducted using a mixed-methods approach, involving the participation of sports business experts and scholars. Data collection was carried out through purposive sampling, employing in-depth interviews with these experts. The qualitative data obtained were analyzed using the thematic analysis approach. Additionally, the identified factors were ranked using the Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP). The findings revealed the existence of six categories of accelerators for sports startups. Notably, strengthening and optimizing the value chain emerged as the most crucial factor among these categories. Consequently, to enhance the growth and development of sports startups, it is imperative to establish a well-defined value chain and actively work towards its reinforcement.
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Volume 100, Issue 100 (10-2020)
Abstract
Introduction and Objectives: Mountain sports destinations have great attractions for tourists due to their special natural and physical characteristics, and one of the ways to contribute to sustainable development in these areas is the development of responsible tourism. The aim of the present study was to develop a responsible tourism development model in mountain-based sports destinations.
Methodology: The research method was qualitative, with a Grounded Theory approach and a semi-structured interview as the instrument. The research population included experts in the field of mountain sports tourism, including professors, faculty members, and researchers, and the sampling method was purposive. The validity of the interviews was confirmed by sports tourism experts and the reliability was confirmed by the two-coder agreement method (80 percent). The findings from 19 interviews were analyzed by coding and presenting a model in MAXQDA 2020 software.
Results: The findings showed that the causal conditions included the lack of smooth paths and guide signs, the culture of tourists and the local community, privatization, and security. Background conditions included lack of attention to carrying capacity, inadequate accommodation, catering and transportation infrastructure in these destinations. Intervening conditions included price instability, lack of waste management system and lack of rational policy making. Also, strategies included holding sports events, training and education of specialized human resources, increasing interactions and coordination between related organizations, local community-based planning and outcomes included improving facilities and developing the regional economy, observing the principles of sustainable development and preserving cultural and natural heritage.
Discussion and Conclusion: According to the findings, it is suggested that sports events in mountain destinations should be held with a focus on responsible tourism and local community-based planning should include training and hiring human resources.
