How does the interaction mechanism between sponsor cards and action cards upgraded to level 2 take effect in Ark Nova?

I'd like to ask about a rules detail in Ark Nova: When my "Sponsors" action card is on its upgraded side (blue side, level 2), can playing sponsor cards break through the strength limit of the cards themselves? Also, can the extra animal cards obtained through the sponsor effect or association work enter play directly, bypassing the level limit of the "Animals" action card?