Branded Content Research Network

The Branded Content Research Network explores media content that is funded or produced by marketers, including sponsored content, native advertising and influencer marketing. The BCRN is an international grouping of academic researchers, media-marketing practitioners and those interested and involved in policy and regulation. The network was first established in 2016 with funding support from the Arts and Humanities Research Council (UK). The network is managed by the Branded Content Research Hub based in the London College of Communication at the University of the Arts London. The Hub is a network-based facility for research, events and exchange, with an international advisory board. Amongst the main activities is the Branded Content Governance Project 2022-2025.This three-year international research project is funded jointly by the UK Research Councils (ESRC and AHRC) ES/W007991/1. The BCRN brings together academics, industry practitioners and professional bodies (inc. Branded Content Marketing Association, Content Marketing Association), regulators, policy stakeholders, and other civil society interests.