Canada Scope (canadascope.org), published by Northern Beacon Media Inc. (Toronto), is committed to maintaining the trust of our readers. This Sponsored Content Policy outlines the standards and practices that govern any paid or promotional content appearing on our site. All sponsored content is clearly identified to ensure transparency and to preserve the integrity of our editorial mission.
Definition of Sponsored Content
Sponsored content refers to material—articles, videos, infographics, or other formats—that has been paid for by a third-party sponsor. The sponsor may provide input on the topic or general messaging, but final editorial control rests with Canada Scope. Sponsored content is distinct from traditional advertising and from affiliate links, as described below.
Labelling Requirements
All sponsored content on Canada Scope must be clearly and prominently labelled so that readers can easily distinguish it from independent editorial material. The following labelling standards apply:
- Headline or subheadline label: Every sponsored article or post will include the words “Sponsored” or “Sponsored Content” directly above the headline or as part of the subheadline. In video content, a visual overlay or verbal announcement will be used at the start.
- Body disclosure: The first paragraph of sponsored content must include a sentence such as: “This article is sponsored by [Sponsor Name] and was produced in accordance with Canada Scope’s Advertising & Affiliate Disclosure.”
- Visual cue: A distinct colour border, shaded background, or icon (e.g., “Sponsored” badge) will differentiate the content from editorial space. This visual treatment is maintained throughout the page.
- Archival prominence: Even when sponsored posts appear in category pages or search results, they will retain a clear “Sponsored” label.
Editorial Independence
Canada Scope’s editorial team retains full control over the creation and approval of all sponsored content. Sponsors may suggest topics or provide background materials, but they do not have the right to:
- dictate editorial conclusions or opinions;
- approve final content before publication (except for factual accuracy checks, if agreed contractually);
- influence the editorial calendar of non-sponsored articles.
Our Editorial Policy applies equally to sponsored content: all claims must be fact-checked, sources must be cited where appropriate, and the content must meet Canada Scope’s quality and ethical standards. Any content that conflicts with our journalistic principles will be rejected or revised.
Distinction from Affiliate Links
It is important to understand how sponsored content differs from affiliate links. Affiliate links are hyperlinks embedded in editorial or sponsored content that may earn Canada Scope a small commission if a reader clicks and makes a purchase. These links do not represent paid placement of the content itself. Sponsored content, by contrast, involves a direct payment to create or feature the entire piece.
Canada Scope clearly labels all affiliate links in accordance with our Advertising & Affiliate Disclosure. If a sponsored article includes affiliate links, that fact will be disclosed separately within the same piece. Readers should always review the full disclosure page for details on how commissions are handled.
Sponsor Relationships and Funding
Canada Scope does not accept sponsored content from sponsors whose products or services are illegal, fraudulent, or otherwise contrary to Canadian law or our Ownership & Funding policies. We reserve the right to refuse any sponsorship that could undermine our credibility or mislead our audience. All sponsor relationships are reviewed by the Editor-in-Chief and the publisher to ensure alignment with our mission.
Enquiries and Complaints
If you have questions about a specific piece of sponsored content, or believe that a sponsored article has not been adequately labelled, please contact our sponsored content team at sponsored@canadascope.org. General feedback regarding our policies can be directed to our contact page. We aim to respond to all enquiries within five business days.
Review and Updates
This Sponsored Content Policy is reviewed annually and may be updated to reflect changes in industry standards, legal requirements, or our own practices. The most current version is always available on this page. For any urgent concerns, please reach out via the contact information above.
Last updated: February 2025 – Canada Scope (Northern Beacon Media Inc., Toronto). Editor-in-Chief: Catherine Roy. Team: Marc Tremblay, Hannah Walsh, Jessica Morin, Kevin Sullivan, Andrew Leblanc.