Introduction: Elite athletes play a pivotal role in enhancing the sporting status of Kermanshah Province and Iran; however, the absence of localized and context-specific models has created challenges in the identification and development of athletic talent. This study aimed to design a systematic and locally adapted framework for sports talent development in Kermanshah Province—one that addresses regional challenges such as inadequate infrastructure and athlete migration while promoting sustainable and targeted talent growth.

Materials and Methods: This qualitative study was conducted in 2026 using the grounded theory strategy based on the approach proposed by Strauss and Corbin (1998). Semi-structured interviews were conducted through purposive sampling according to the main research question and predefined inclusion and exclusion criteria. Theoretical saturation was achieved after conducting 19 interviews. Participants included elite athletes, faculty members, physical education teachers, sports coaches, and managers or staff members of the Department of Physical Education. Data were analyzed through three stages of open, axial, and selective coding.

Results: Findings revealed that the core category of the study was the “systematic process of sports elite development.” Based on the extracted paradigm model, causal conditions included cultural development, structural provision, and the creation of equal opportunities. Contextual conditions consisted of motivation enhancement and targeted planning. In addition, social support, financial support, and professional support emerged as intervening conditions. The main strategies identified included broad-based assessment, comprehensive screening, elite selection, placement in the appropriate developmental pathway, empowerment, and continuous support. The outcomes of implementing this model included the branding of sports elites and the institutionalization of meritocracy within the provincial sports system.

Conclusion: The findings indicated that achieving effective sports elite development in Kermanshah Province requires the establishment of an integrated system based on contextual preparation, strategic guidance, multidimensional support, and merit-based mechanisms to facilitate the sustainable development of elite sports.