Promotional Contests

Contests can be great promotional tools. Many consumers are attracted to the idea of winning a prize and are eager to become eligible contestants. 
www.competitionbureau.gc.ca

The MGCC is often asked if it regulates promotional contests and what the “rules” are. 

Is it gambling?

If promotional contests are run appropriately they are not gambling and are not regulated by the MGCC.  However, to enter the contest you must not be required to pay in any way – you should not have to purchase any products or services, be required to make a donation or pay to attend an event. 

Where there is:

• a cost to enter or play, and
• a chance to win, and
• a prize

...it is in most cases gambling and the MGCC has a responsibility to ensure that such activities are not being conducted illegally.  Complaints of suspected illegal gaming activities may be made to the MGCC. 

Legitimate Promotional Contests

Legitimate promotional contests must abide by provisions of the Competition Act, which is administered and enforced by the Government of Canada’s Competition Bureau.   

If you are a business or other organization wondering about running a promotional contest

	A very good resource is the article No Purchase Necessary - The Pitfalls of Promotional Contestsby Drew Mitchell of Thompson Dorfman Sweatman.
	The Competition Bureau produces a pamphlet or has information on their website www.competitionbureau.gc.ca.