Developing A Capacity-Building Framework for Investment in National Sports Facilities Based on the Build–Operate–Transfer Hybrid Approach

Paper ID : 1327-SPORTCONGRESS

Authors

erfan ghari, fariba askarian *, mehrzad hamidi university of Tehran

Abstract

Introduction: The rise of multifunctional sports facilities and resource optimization has emphasized sustainable investment models. However, understanding of building institutional, managerial, and infrastructural capacities for BOT investment in Iran’s sports sector remains limited. Methods: This qualitative research adopted a multiple grounded theory design to systematically integrate empirical evidence and theoretical insights. Data were collected from two main sources: (1) expert interviews with 16 academic and executive professionals specializing in sports management and economics, and (2) a systematic review of 46 peer-reviewed studies related to investment, governance, and BOT practices in the sports domain. Judgmental sampling and the principle of theoretical saturation guided participant selection. Data collection tools included semi-structured interviews and a validated checklist for extracting relevant concepts from the literature. Multi-level coding and constant comparative analysis were applied to identify key categories and relationships among them. Results: The coding and comparative analysis process revealed a total of 128 conceptual codes that were systematically organized into 40 subcategories, 10 main categories, and 3 overarching dimensions. The first dimension, environmental grounding, reflects the contextual, institutional, and socio-economic conditions that shape opportunities, constraints. The second dimension, systemic governance, highlights the importance of coherent legal frameworks, transparent financial mechanisms, inter-organizational collaboration, private sectors. The third dimension, developmental advancement, focuses on the operational implementation of BOT projects, including investment typologies, procedural phases, performance evaluation, and long-term sustainability outcomes. Conclusion: Successful BOT investment in sports infrastructure requires coordinated efforts in regulation, partnerships, and capacity building. Policymakers should focus on transparent rules, long-term incentives, and enhancing public-private skills. Aligning finances with local context and governance ensures sustainable, inclusive sports facility development. The framework helps national leaders guide policy, investment, and learning.

Keywords

Build–Operate–Transfer (BOT), Investment Capacity-Building, Sports Facilities, Multifunctional Venues, Sustainable Development.

Status: Abstract Accepted (Poster Presentation)