Document Type : Research Paper

Authors

• Seyed Morteza Azimzadeh
• Mohammad Ehsani
• Asad allah Kordnaeij
• Hashem Kozechian

Abstract

Nowadays, the new enterprises are recognized as the main source of job creation, innovation and development. Therefore, identifying the factors playing key roles in the start-up of small and medium sized enterprises (SMEs) is critical. The purpose of this study was to propose a conceptual model for sport SMEs start-up. The methodology was qualitative using Document Content Analysis and Semi-structured interview methods. From the participants of this study, 18 scholars involved in SMEs were selected through purposive sampling. After a careful investigation of business start-up models in the literature, three approaches were recognized including: individual, environmental, and integration approach. the integrated approach was proposed as a comprehensive model to supplement other approaches. In this approach, beside environmental and individual factors, researchers can add other vital factors to enrich their models. Then, a model was proposed in line with integration approach. Interviews were done with experts in order to localize the proposed model and identify their opinions about it. The model composed of three important factors: 1. Individual; 2. Environmental; and 3. Financial factors. It should be mentioned that these factors were constituted of sub dimensions. I t is believed that, this model can display the most critical factors influencing sport business start-up.

Keywords

• Entrepreneurship
• Small and Medium-size Enterprise
• Start-up
• Sport
• conceptual model