Identification of Factors Influencing the Improvement and Development of the Business Environment in Selected Less-Developed Provinces
Keywords:
Improvement and development of the business environment, less-developed provinces, content analysisAbstract
The main issue concerning the development of the business environment in less-developed provinces relates to the challenges and obstacles these regions face in advancing their economic growth. Therefore, focusing on the promotion of the business environment and the enhancement of its related infrastructure in these provinces is an inevitable and effective macro strategy toward achieving sustainable development. The primary aim of the present study is to identify the factors influencing the improvement and development of the business environment in selected less-developed provinces. This study employed a qualitative research design using content analysis through interviews with experts to identify key factors affecting the development of the business environment and to design possible scenarios. The statistical population consisted of faculty members in economics and entrepreneurship management from universities located in selected less-developed provinces, all economic actors in these provinces, as well as business experts and entrepreneurs active in these areas. Accordingly, 19 experts (14 men and 5 women) with diverse specializations (such as economic development, investment analysis, and foresight) participated in this section. The findings of this study, extracted through open, axial, and selective coding, reveal a wide range of factors influencing the improvement and development of the business environment in Iran’s less-developed provinces. These factors were categorized into seven main themes: strengthening infrastructure, supporting investment, optimal utilization of local capacities, empowering human resources, reforming governmental policies, expanding trade and exports, and managing social and environmental challenges. Expanding economic and business activities in these provinces can effectively increase income levels, create employment opportunities, and reduce economic disparities.
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Copyright (c) 2025 Abedin Mahmoudi, Javad Gilanipour, Mohammad Javad Taghipourian, Mohammdali Nasimi (Author)
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