Developing a Framework for Entrepreneurial Export of Greenhouse Products

Entrepreneurial export of greenhouse products constitutes a significant part of the agricultural economy, driven by the increasing demand for fresh and sustainable products in international markets. The main objective of the present research is to propose a framework for the entrepreneurial export of greenhouse products. This study is applied in nature and qualifies as qualitative research in terms of methodology. The geographical scope of the research is the city of Ilam, and the study was conducted during the first quarter of 2025. The statistical population of this research includes academic experts, researchers familiar with the subject, and owners of exporting greenhouses in Ilam province. For sample selection, snowball sampling was employed, continuing until theoretical saturation was reached, resulting in a final participation of 14 individuals. The primary data collection tool used in the research was semi-structured interviews. The data were analyzed using thematic analysis techniques. The results of the study indicated that the framework for the entrepreneurial export of greenhouse products consists of 63 basic themes, 19 organizing themes, and 8 overarching themes. The eight main factors in this framework are: infrastructure development, development of greenhouse complexes, international marketing and branding development, improvement of transportation infrastructure, greenhouse-centric entrepreneurship, internal resources and capacities, supportive environment and facilitation of exports, and strategic control. This proposed framework could provide a basis for decision-makers and stakeholders in the greenhouse sector to identify influential factors and coordinate among them, enabling more effective steps towards sustainable and entrepreneurial development of greenhouse product exports.