Origins

While the Center for Sports and Business was officially founded in 2015, its origins date back to 2011 when SSE Executive Education, in collaboration with the Johan Cruyff Institute, launched the Management Diploma for Athletes (MDA). This initiative laid the foundation for strong collaborations within Swedish sports and sparked research that led to internationally published work. As the MDA continues to support Sweden’s elite athletes in developing dual careers, the Center remains a driving force for innovation and new ideas. 

Education on all levels

Over time, CSB has broadened its educational reach across all levels. We offer elective courses at both BSc and MSc levels, executive education programs tailored to sports organizations, specialized offerings such as the European Sports Business Program, designed to prepare high-potential individuals for the future of sports business, and Nästa Steg, an introductory course for individuals with a sports and military background. 

International at heart

CSB is international at heart, comprising over 40 researchers from 12 countries. We collaborate with leading European institutions, host global webinars, and lead initiatives like Collective Visibility, which elevates the voices of women in sports worldwide.  

Inspiring the next generation of athletes and professionals

The Center maintains strong connections to SSE students through its elective courses, thesis supervision, and student-led projects with our partner organizations. We also work closely with the student-run Sports Committee (IDU) through the SSE Sport Initiative - offering field trips, regular training sessions, guest lectures, and the annual Sports & Business Week. 

In an increasingly global and digital world, the Center for Sports & Business continues to lead the way - bridging academia and industry, empowering athletes and professionals, and inspiring the next generation to push the boundaries of what sports and business can achieve.