Sponsorships, Endorsements, and Donations

Policy Number
2205
Responsibility
VP Brand, Communications & Engagement
Approved
Board of Governors
Effective Date
June 15, 2023
Context/Purpose

The purpose of this policy is to inform the Justice Institute of British Columbia’s (“JIBC” or the “Institute”) decision making on requests for sponsorships, endorsements, and donations and to outline the process for requesting support from JIBC.

Policy Statement

JIBC is routinely approached with requests for sponsorship, endorsement and/or donations. Such requests seek support in the form of:

  • donations of funds or JIBC staff time;
  • provision of in-kind materials, such as JIBC-branded clothing, services, courses, or experiences; 
  • endorsement of a product or service of an organization; and/or
  • any other request for donation, endorsement, or sponsorship (collectively referred to as “Requests”).

JIBC will consider requests for sponsorship, endorsement, or donations on an ad hoc basis where budget allows and where such requests meet the criteria set forth in this policy.

Scope

This policy applies to all requests for sponsorship received by JIBC employees, faculty, its contractors, or its Board of Governors.

Definitions

In-Kind – a non-cash contribution such as goods or services. 

Criteria for Evaluation of a Sponsorship, Endorsement or Donation Request

JIBC will consider the following when evaluating a request: 

  • Is the nature of the request consistent with JIBC’s vision, mission, mandate, strategic direction, priorities, policies and procedures, and brand? Fundamentally, does the request fit with our public safety and social justice mandate?
  • Are there any real or perceived conflicts of interest associated with the request?
  • Is there an appearance of product endorsement for which the Institute does not wish to be connected?
  • Are there any personal, financial, or professional gains for JIBC staff or faculty, contractors, or members of the Board of Governors, which create a conflict of interest?
  • Cost/Benefit: How will the benefits to be derived from the intended purpose of the sponsorship/donation compare with the JIBC budget/resources required to fulfill the intended purpose?

Regardless of the above factors, JIBC will not agree to any sponsorship, endorsement, or donation that would imply JIBC’s endorsement of a partisan political or ideological position or belief system.

Employee Awareness

Employees are required to make themselves aware of all JIBC policies and procedures. Lack of awareness of this or any other JIBC policy does not excuse an employee from responsibility for their actions.

Procedures

The procedures for evaluating Requests under this policy are set out in Procedure 2205-001.

Related Policies and Procedures