Modelling the Impact of Wearable Technologies on Entrepreneurship Development and Innovative Products in Iran's Sports Industry

This study aims to model the impact of wearable technologies on entrepreneurship development and innovative product creation in Iran’s sports industry. The research addresses a significant gap by empirically examining how the adoption of wearable technologies influences entrepreneurial activity and product innovation in a rapidly evolving sector. A quantitative, descriptive-correlational research design was employed. The statistical population included sports entrepreneurs, managers, and technology developers in Iran. Using stratified random sampling, 320 participants were selected from startups, established companies, federations, and incubators. Data were collected via a validated questionnaire and analysed using Structural Equation Modelling and Confirmatory Factor Analysis (CFA) with AMOS 26 and SPSS 27 to ensure construct validity and reliability (Cronbach’s alpha > 0.85). The results indicate that wearable technology adoption significantly predicts both entrepreneurial development (β = 0.41, p < 0.001) and product innovation (β = 0.38, p < 0.001). Furthermore, entrepreneurial development partially mediates the relationship between wearable technology adoption and product innovation (β = 0.36, p < 0.001). The model demonstrated good fit (CFI = 0.94, RMSEA = 0.05), and the findings highlight the critical role of wearable technologies in fostering innovation and entrepreneurship within Iran’s sports sector. This research is among the first in Iran to empirically model the pathways linking wearable technology adoption, entrepreneurship, and product innovation using advanced statistical techniques. The study provides actionable insights for policymakers, industry leaders, and academics, emphasizing the strategic importance of digital transformation in the sports industry.