Identification of Factors Influencing the Development of Artificial Intelligence Startups in Health and Sports

Abstract

This study aims to identify the key factors influencing the development of AI startups in the health and sports sectors. This applied and survey-based study included a sample of 137 managers, experts, and staff from AI startups in health and sports, selected through convenience sampling. Data were collected using a researcher-developed questionnaire comprising 39 items across six dimensions. Analytical methods included the Kolmogorov-Smirnov test for normality, confirmatory factor analysis, and the Friedman test for ranking factors. The findings revealed that managerial factors, with a mean score of 4.79, played the most significant role in developing AI startups in health and sports. Economic factors (mean score: 4.55) and advertising factors (mean score: 4.33) ranked second and third, respectively. Innovation, awareness, and cultural factors followed in descending order. Confirmatory factor analysis indicated that all questionnaire items had factor loadings above 0.4, demonstrating the construct validity of the instrument. The results highlight that effective management and adequate financial resources are critical for the success of AI startups. Moreover, strategic advertising and raising public awareness can facilitate the adoption of AI technologies. These insights can guide policymakers and managers in designing effective strategies to expand AI startups in the health and sports sectors.