TORONTO -- Independent internet service provider VMedia has launched its own live, on-demand streaming service.

Unlike offerings from the national telecom companies such as Bell's Alt TV, Rogers' Ignite and Telus' Pik TV, VMedia says subscriptions won't be tied to a corresponding Internet package.

RiverTV charges $16.99/month for more than 30 channels, largely drawn from Corus, Blue Ant Media and Wildbrain, formerly known as DHX.

The channels include local Global TV stations, W Network, Showcase, Teletoon, YTV, Treehouse, History, Adult Swim, Family, Slice, Smithsonian Channel Canada, and Crime & Investigation. Seven U.S. channels include Cheddar, Drink TV, Law & Crime, and Revolt. VMedia says more will be added, including channels that can be added on an a la carte basis.

VMedia co-founder George Burger says he expects RiverTV will appeal to those aged 20 to 44, as well as families with young children.

VMedia serves about 45,000 households in local markets across the country.

BNN Bloomberg is a division of Bell Media, which is owned by BCE.