2027 AMA Marketing and Public Policy Conference

Bridging Research and Policy in Uncertain Times

August 4-6, 2027 | National Harbor, MD

In the last few years, many of the institutions that traditionally provide guidance to policymakers and societal decision-makers have experienced profound change. At the same time, the growth of misinformation and disinformation has complicated the public’s ability to distinguish credible evidence from competing claims. Against this backdrop, some observers have argued that we are in a “post-truth” and “post-trust” era, one in which facts are increasingly contested and confidence in traditional institutions has eroded. These developments raise important questions for marketing and public policy scholars: How can evidence-based insights inform decision-making when expertise is met with skepticism? How can policymakers and institutions effectively communicate and maintain public trust in an increasingly fragmented information environment? Addressing these challenges is essential to understanding how policy can remain credible, effective, and responsive in uncertain times.

The theme of the 2027 Marketing and Public Policy Conference, Bridging Research and Policy in Uncertain Times, recognizes the critical role of fostering stronger connections among scholars, policymakers, regulators, practitioners, and community leaders as societies navigate complexity and change. Research provides the theoretical foundations, evidence, and practical insights needed to inform policy development, but its impact is greatest when meaningful connections exist between those generating knowledge and those responsible for making and implementing policy decisions. The conference provides a close-knit setting for academics to strengthen their research through focused feedback, fresh perspectives, and meaningful discussion about marketing’s role in public policy. These exchanges also create opportunities for mentorship, relationship building, and deeper connections within the field. At the same time, policy challenges can inspire new research questions, creating opportunities for productive dialogue and mutual learning. We invite contributions that not only advance theory and evidence but also foster dialogue between researchers and policy stakeholders, strengthen the translation of research into practice, and demonstrate how collaboration across these communities can contribute to more informed, effective, and trusted policymaking.