Social Business Journal

Social Business Journal

Designing an economic development model for sport for all in the Islamic Republic of Iran based on Stakeholder Participation with a Sustainable Social Enterprise Approach

Document Type : Original Article

Authors
Hamid Ahmadi
Alimohammad Amirtash
Mohsen Bagherian farahabadi
Seyyed Salaheddin Naghshbandi
Department of Sports Management, Faculty of Physial Education and Sports Sciences, University of Science and Research, Tehran, Iran.
10.22059/jsbu.2026.404518.1074
Abstract
Objective: Sport for all, as a vital pillar of social development and public health, faces significant financial challenges in Iran. Heavy reliance on government funding, the absence of a stable financial system, and the limited use of private-sector capacities and public participation are among the main obstacles to the economic development of this sector. This study aimed to develop a model for the economic development of sport for all based on stakeholder participation.
Method: This applied study employed a mixed-methods (qualitative–quantitative) research design. In the qualitative phase, data were collected through interviews with experts and analyzed using grounded theory. In the quantitative phase, a researcher-developed questionnaire was administered, and descriptive and inferential statistical methods were used for data analysis. The statistical population comprised senior managers of the Sport for All Federation, heads of provincial sport-for-all boards, and experts in sports economics.
Results: The findings identified factors influencing the economic development of sport for all, which were categorized into five main dimensions: structural–institutional, financial–economic, cultural–social, legal–regulatory, and technological–infrastructural. Furthermore, stakeholder participation, including that of the government, private sector, public institutions, and the general public, was identified as the central component of the proposed model.
Conclusions: The findings indicate that the economic development of sport for all in Iran requires a shift from a unilateral, state-centered model toward a multi-source and participatory approach. Key strategies include leveraging private-sector capacities, attracting public investment, developing sports marketing, and establishing transparent financial mechanisms.
Keywords
Economic Development
Financial Model
Sport for All Federation
Stakeholder Participation
Sustainable Social Enterprise
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Social Business Journal
Volume 3, Issue 3
Summer 2026
Pages 27-44