Exploring Social Entrepreneurship in Birdwatching-based Ecotourism: A Delphi Study of a Birdwatching NGO, Iran

This paper presents a qualitative Delphi study on the AvayeBoom Bird Conservation Society in Iran to explore social entrepreneurship strategies in birdwatching-based ecotourism. Utilizing semi-structured interviews with eight experts from the sector, the research identifies critical approaches like community involvement, educational initiatives, and collaborative efforts with stakeholders. The findings highlight innovative strategies such as diversified birdwatching tours and local and international expertise integration. Challenges include funding, logistical constraints, and balancing ecological conservation with economic development. The study contributes to understanding the role of NGOs in sustainable tourism, offering insights for similar initiatives globally. It underscores the importance of community engagement and multi-stakeholder collaboration in promoting sustainable ecotourism practices.