SPORT AND ENTREPRENEURSHIP – Investment in New Sports and Recreation Services and Conference Activities

In the diploma thesis, we present entrepreneurship in connection with sport and demonstrate that such an enterprise or activity can also be successful. At the same time, we emphasise that continuous development is necessary, both in sport and in entrepreneurship. The diploma thesis is an upgrade of the business plan that was prepared for the entrepreneurship module (for investment in new recreation and conference activities) and was further developed for the purposes of the diploma thesis.

Problem

In the diploma thesis, we present entrepreneurship in connection with sport and demonstrate that such an enterprise or activity can also be successful. At the same time, we emphasise that continuous development is necessary, both in sport and in entrepreneurship.

Solution and Method

The diploma thesis is an upgrade of the business plan that was prepared for the entrepreneurship module (for investment in new recreation and conference activities) and was further developed for the purposes of the diploma thesis. A market research survey was conducted using a questionnaire (amongst individuals and legal entities in Maribor and the surrounding area), thus demonstrating that development in this field is possible. At the beginning, a theoretical section on entrepreneurship and sport was added, followed by market research with a survey and a business plan.

Since there is currently no significant provider of sport and sports equipment at the eastern end of Maribor or the surrounding area, and sports tourism is expanding in Slovenia, with an increasing number of foreign guests coming to our country (also for recreation), it was decided that alongside a diverse recreation offer, ** conference activities** would also be provided. The conference hall will mainly be intended for presentations and testing of sports equipment from the brands we represent (DANRHO, KWON, K-TAC, HÖNO). The conference hall will also be available (for hire) to local associations and clubs that do not have their own premises.

For the operating enterprise, the idea of expansion into new recreation and conference activities was verified through market research, and a business plan was prepared with a presentation of the activities and product/service, with an analysis of competitors, suppliers, customers, an analysis of strengths and weaknesses as well as opportunities and threats, and a detailed description of the planned investment. Based on the market research, we establish that their business idea is feasible.