Analysing the trends that are emerging in sport enterprises such as advancements in technology and social media, the authors of this illuminating book tackle the issue of how to create new opportunities in such a changing industry. Providing valuable reading for sports business scholars, this book draws on examples from inventive companies as well as inspirational sports leaders and illustrates the various drivers behind innovation. Addressing the need for a culture of innovation within sports enterprises, the authors reveal sustainable ways for companies to stay ahead of the game in an increasingly competitive global sport market.

James Skinner is the Director of the Institute for Sport Business and Professor of Sport Business at Loughborough University London. He is a Visiting Professor at the Russian International Olympic University, Beijing Sport University and Ulster University. He has consulted to international governing bodies, professional sporting enterprises, major events, sport technology companies, government departments and agencies.

Aaron C. T. Smith is a Professor of Sport Business at Loughborough University London. He has worked extensively in the consulting sector across the Asia-Pacific region, Europe, North America and the Middle East, working with over 120 clients including multinational corporations, professional sporting clubs, national and state sport associations, media companies, sport and entertainment facilities, and governments.

Steve Swanson is the Director of the Sport Business and Leadership programme at Loughborough University London in QueenElizabeth Olympic Park. After a fifteen-year career as a basketball coach at the professional and NCAA Division I levels, Steve is now an active researcher and consultant in the areas of business, management, and leadership. 

1. Introduction: A Different Animal.- 2. Entrepreneurship: Think, Create and Act.- 3. Leaders as the Drivers of Innovation: The Sport Leadership Ecosystem and Innovative Leadership.- 4. Mapping Innovation in Sport: Revealing the Innovation Opportunity.- 5. Creating Innovative Sporting Cultures: Enabling an Innovation Enterprise.- 6. Championing Innovation: Leadership Approaches for Fostering Innovative Environments.- 7. Growing an Innovation Culture: Nurturing Ideas, Inspiring Minds and Creating Futures.- 8. Conclusion: Leadership, Culture and Invention.