Ferdowsi University of Mashhad Journal of Research and Rural Planning 2783-2791 15 2 2026 06 01 Exploring the Drivers of Artificial Intelligence’s Impact on the Development of Technological Entrepreneurship (Case Study: Rural Areas of Shemiranat County) 1 19 48374 10.22067/jrrp.v15i2.2606-1167 EN Aliakbar Anabestani Shahid Beheshti University, Tehran, Iran. 0000-0003-1461-5893 Behnaz Rahimi Shahid Beheshti University, Tehran, Iran. Journal Article 2026 04 08 <strong>Purpose-</strong> Technological advancements, particularly Artificial Intelligence (AI), are transforming modern business models and fostering technological entrepreneurship. While AI offers significant potential for sustainable development in rural areas through increased productivity and innovation, these regions often benefit less due to weak digital infrastructure and institutional constraints. This study aims to identify and analyze the key drivers of AI's impact on the development of technological entrepreneurship in the rural areas of Shemiranat County.<br /><strong>Design/methodology/approach-</strong> This applied research employs a descriptive-analytical approach and a mixed-methods (qualitative-quantitative) design. Data collection involved documentary studies and fieldwork. In the qualitative phase, data were gathered through semi-structured interviews with 18 experts selected via purposive sampling. Data were analyzed using qualitative content analysis with open, axial, and selective coding. In the quantitative phase, the causal relationships among the identified drivers were analyzed using Interpretive Structural Modeling (ISM) and MICMAC software. The research was conducted in the rural areas of Shemiranat County in 2025.<br /><strong>Finding-</strong> The analysis identified 18 key drivers, categorized into five groups: technological, economic, social, policy-related, and environmental. Results indicate that AI can effectively contribute to rural socio-economic sustainability by enhancing productivity, creating innovative employment opportunities, and strengthening environmental resilience. Key challenges include a gap between physical access to technology and commercial utilization, low digital literacy, and a lack of supportive legal frameworks tailored for rural micro-businesses.<br /><strong>Practical Implications-</strong> To leverage AI for rural technological entrepreneurship, policymakers should prioritize: 1) expanding high-speed internet and digital infrastructure; 2) establishing rural-focused innovation centers and accelerators; 3) developing supportive policies including low-interest loans and tax exemptions for AI-based ventures; and 4) implementing targeted training programs to enhance digital literacy and practical AI skills among local communities. These actions will help bridge the existing digital divide and translate infrastructure into productive economic outcomes.<br /><strong>Originality/value–</strong><strong> </strong>This research is novel in its comprehensive and systemic analysis of drivers for AI-based technological entrepreneurship in Iranian rural areas. By employing a mixed-method approach combined with ISM and MICMAC structural analysis, it moves beyond simple descriptive studies to identify causal and hierarchical relationships among the drivers. The study provides a contextualized framework for policymakers, highlighting the foundational role of government support and digital infrastructure in fostering a dynamic and inclusive entrepreneurial ecosystem in rural regions. https://jrrp.um.ac.ir/article_48374_2a202546a9f78b3320773a9f3c44ea4c.pdf