Several Canadian entertainment companies including Alliance Atlantis Broadcasting, have applied for licences to operate digital specialty channels in the latest request for proposals by the Canadian Radio-television and Telecommunications Commission.

Among Alliance's proposals, which include channels devoted to independent film, books and biographical documentaries, is a partnership with BBC Worldwide to be called BBC Canada featuring the BBC's drama and entertainment programming.

Meanwhile, Nelvana is proposing the Nelvana Channel, an entertainment service in which programmes will be combined on screen with supporting graphics and text material. Nelvana also has a book channel proposal, in partnership with Corus Entertainment, although its target audience is directed at children and adults alike.