New European Ideas Papers Featuring ISG: How Digitalization and Entrepreneurship Can Shape the Future of European Sport
The European Commission has just published two strategic documents (Ideas Papers) that contribute significantly to the ongoing discussion on the future of European sport. The central themes of both papers are digitalization and entrepreneurship in the sports sector—two key areas that have long been at the heart of the Institute for Sport Governance’s mission.
We are proud to announce that our foundation has been named as one of the co-creators of both documents, with our President, PhD Grzegorz Botwina, serving as Chair of the Steering Group within the Community of Practice and Innovation affiliated with the European Commission.
What are the Ideas Papers?
Ideas Papers are documents that provide concrete recommendations and proposed actions that can be implemented by public administrations, sports federations, clubs, and other organizations at the local, regional, and national levels. They serve as practical tools for driving change—based on data, expert experience, and best practices from across Europe.
What do the documents contain?
The first paper focuses on digitalization as a source of competitive advantage in sport. It emphasizes the need to:
- Improve digital competencies in sports clubs through training and practical guides,
- Enhance digital infrastructure, particularly at the local level,
- Counteract market fragmentation of digital tools by developing open catalogues and resources.
The second paper is dedicated to building an entrepreneurial ecosystem in the sports sector. It offers recommendations for:
- Supporting sports start-ups and collaboration with local businesses,
- Facilitating access to funding—both public and private,
- Promoting entrepreneurship education, including for athletes transitioning out of professional careers.
ISG at the Heart of European Sport Policy Transformation
Both digitalization and entrepreneurship are vital for building a modern, resilient, and competitive sports sector. These documents demonstrate how these values can be translated into practical, actionable measures. They also signal clearly that the European Commission sees sport not only as a matter of passion, but also of strategy and innovative governance.
ISG’s involvement in drafting these papers reaffirms our role as a think tank actively shaping European sport policy. Our mission is to support sports organizations in their professionalization, the development of modern governance structures, and the implementation of solutions based on good governance and social responsibility principles.
Download the Ideas Papers
The papers offer in-depth analysis, identified trends, and a set of practical recommendations for sports organizations, public authorities, and institutions engaged in the development of sport in Europe.
Explore the official article from the European Commission and download both Ideas Papers here:
https://sport.ec.europa.eu/news/share-20-initiative-releases-insights-on-competitiveness-and-entrepreneurship-in-the-sport-sector
The documents are available in English and can be freely used for conceptual work, strategic planning, and policy design at the local, regional, and national levels.
