Challenges and critical factors affecting the performance of health accelerators in Iran

Background Accelerators are key drivers of innovation, entrepreneurship, employment and economic growth. This study explores the challenges and critical factors influencing the performance of specialised accelerators in Iran’s health sector. Methods This qualitative study employed content analysis. Data were collected through 17 interviews (both text and video), supplemented by the analysis of 7 news platforms and 17 websites related to health sector accelerators and entrepreneurship in Iran. Data were analysed using conventional content analysis in MAXQDA 2020 software. Results Findings were categorised into three main areas: objectives and values, functions and activities, and critical processes. External challenges were classified into market environment, sociocultural factors, policy and governance, economic factors and the educational system, further divided into 10 subcategories and 27 codes. Internal challenges included management, financing, human resources, and technical and technological infrastructure, comprising 4 subcategories and 16 codes. This detailed classification provides a comprehensive understanding of the barriers facing health accelerators. Conclusion The study highlights significant challenges faced by health sector accelerators in Iran, particularly in policy-making, governance, market complexities and limited access to financial resources. These findings underscore the need for policymakers and planners to address these barriers to foster the growth and development of health accelerators and startups.