Sajedeh Karimi Kondozi,
Volume 15, Issue 55 (6-2026)
Abstract
Objective: Artificial Intelligence (AI) has emerged as a transformative technology with significant potential to enhance rural development through improving productivity, decision-making processes, and access to information. This study aimed to investigate the role of AI in empowering rural communities, considering the mediating effect of managerial support in the rural areas of Natanz County, Iran.
Methods: The research adopted an applied, descriptive-survey design. The statistical population consisted of all rural residents of Natanz County, from which 371 respondents were selected using Cochran’s sampling formula. Data were collected through a structured questionnaire comprising three dimensions: artificial intelligence (5 items), rural empowerment (19 items), and managerial support (6 items). The validity of the instrument was confirmed through face, content, and construct validity, while reliability was verified using Cronbach’s alpha coefficient (0.86). Data were analyzed using Structural Equation Modeling (SEM) in SmartPLS software.
Results: The findings revealed that AI had a significant positive effect on rural empowerment (β = 0.636, T = 12.002) and managerial support (β = 0.392, T = 3.875). Furthermore, managerial support significantly influenced rural empowerment (β = 0.332, T = 5.533). Sobel test results confirmed the mediating role of managerial support in the relationship between AI and rural empowerment (T = 7.678). The results indicate that AI can substantially contribute to rural empowerment by enhancing agricultural productivity, improving access to education and healthcare services, facilitating market connectivity, and supporting informed decision-making. Effective managerial support and appropriate infrastructure are essential for maximizing the developmental benefits of AI in rural communities.
Conclusions: The study highlights the importance of integrating AI technologies into rural development strategies to foster sustainable socio-economic transformation and reduce rural–urban disparities.
