MUMBAI: American independent cable channel Anime Network moves from a strictly video-on-demand (VoD) format to a 24x7 national network from today (27 July).

The network has announced that it has secured deals with major American advertisers in preparation for its launch, including interactive entertainment powerhouses Atari, Nintendo and Capcom.

Today's launch includes a kick-off event from the Comcast Media Center in Littleton where the network's signal will originate. The winner of Anime Network's Launch the Network Sweepstakes - Janine Hwang - will take center stage at the event, where she will become the first non-animated person to appear on the network as she flips the switch to begin the network's linear broadcast.

With a dedicated and loyal fan base, anime is among the hottest genres in the entertainment world today and has been riding on this wave of popularity. Anime Network has become one of the most successful VoD offerings available to cable and satellite subscribers, holding the distinction of being the only independent network ever launched from a VoD programming service.

Atari, Nintendo and Capcom have joined Ex'Pression College for Digital Arts as the initial primary advertisers on the network. AD Vision, well-known in the industry for its exceptional retail relationships, will continue to tap into its vast resources in support of the Anime Network's linear launch, informed an official release.

"It's a testament to the growing popularity of anime and the intense support of its fans that we have been able to line up top-notch advertisers before our linear launch," states Anime Network president Kevin Corcoran. "I'm thrilled our company has the power and resources to bring advertisers to our new linear network and offer them additional opportunities to increase their visibility and grow revenue for the entire industry."