ETHICAL GUIDELINES FOR
SPONSORING THE SIM

Definitions 

For the purposes of this policy, the following definitions apply: 

• Donation: a free or philanthropic contribution or gift. 

• Endorsement: a formal and explicit approval or a promotional statement for a product or service of a corporation. 

• Sponsorship: a sponsorship arrangement is a business arrangement whereby the private sector partner commits resources (funds and/or in-kind resources) to support a specific project or activity but does not share in the profits or underlying risks of the project. The private sector contributes funds to an event, program or even a capital project and receives a benefit (e.g., specific image and marketing opportunities) from the associated publicity. 

General Assumptions 

Three general assumptions determine the acceptance of all sponsorships: 

1. The SIM will solicit and accept support for projects and activities that are consistent with its mission. 

2. Acceptance of sponsorships must enhance, and shall not impede, the SIM’s ability to always act in the best interest of the public. 

3. The SIM’s name, logo and other intangible intellectual assets must be protected at all times. 

Evaluation of Sponsorships 

It is expected that all sponsors making sponsorships of any amount will comply with the SIM’s mission

High Profile Sponsorships 

All sponsorships for high profile, recognition, regardless of the amount must be reviewed by the Executive staff and the Board of Directors. The Board of Directors must review and approve all decisions related to the recognition of potential sponsors that involve high-profile to preserve the credibility and reputation of the Society. 

Sponsorships Valued at $25,000 or more 

All sponsorships of $25,000 or more will be reviewed by the Society’s Executive staff and the Board of Directors through the Finance Committee. 

Sponsorships valued at less than $25,000 

All sponsorships under $25,000 will be reviewed by Executive staff. 

Criteria for Reviewing a Sponsorship 

The review of sponsorships is to determine the balance of benefit to the risks and costs of collaborating with the sponsor. On a case-by-case basis, the following conditions should be considered in determining the benefits and risks of accepting the sponsorship. 

Are the specified proposed uses of the sponsorship congruent with the mission and mandate of the SIM? 

Issues to consider during the review of sponsorship opportunities, include: 

1. How do the proposed uses of the sponsorship relate to the SIM’s mission and mandate? 

2. Why does the organization want to sponsor the SIM?

3. How will the benefits to be derived from the intended purpose of the sponsorship compare with the SIM’s resources required to fulfil the intended purpose? 

4. Do the practices of the corporate fit with the adopted policies of the SIM? 

The SIM will also consider occupational health and safety conditions under which products or services are produced; employment practices, including commitment to diversity; commitment to protection of the environment; record of regulatory compliance; marketing and advertising practices; research and development policy and practices; human rights record; sponsor’s relevant public policy positions; and other past activities that may impact the SIM’s reputation and credibility.

Are the sponsor’s expectations pertaining to control, oversight, and outcome(s) of the sponsorship and/or project to which the funds are applied acceptable to the SIM?

The SIM will accept funds only if it has complete control of content, activity, and funds. 

Are the sponsor’s expectations regarding recognition or acknowledgement of their support acceptable? 

Acknowledgement will be limited to company name, logos, slogans which are an established part of the sponsor’s identity. 

Documentation 

All reviews of sponsorship opportunities must be documented. 

Sponsorships to third parties 

Sponsorships received by a third party for the SIM or an activity that is associated with or publicised as the SIM must conform with the SIM’s goals and mission. The SIM’s Executive staff must be informed of the original source of the sponsorship, its intended use and how the sponsorship will be promoted. 

Sponsor Recognition 

Public recognition of sponsors will apply in print and electronic mediums with the following terms: 

1. The SIM’s name and/or logo should appear first and be of equal or larger size than the     sponsor’s.

2. The SIM’s name and/or logo should be equally visible as the sponsor’s name and/or logo. 

3. Sponsors should be listed alphabetically or alphabetically within sponsorship ranges. 

It is suggested that variations on the below wording be used as an introductory statement to a list of sponsors: “The SIM gratefully acknowledges the support received for [insert name of project] from the following contributors:”