YouTube Launches Canadian Site

YouTube, the world's most popular video-sharing website today announced the launch of its local Canadian site.

YouTube.ca, the new Canadian site is designed to promote Canadian-generated content. The site's localized search features emphasize content produced in Canada such as promoted videos, featured videos sections on the homepage, where users will also be able to watch a welcome video to the site created by popular Canadian YouTube user, TheWineKone.

Content uploaded by users in Canada will show up as "top favourites" and "recommended content" on the YouTube Canada site, creating a new space for the national community and giving Canadian users the opportunity to increase their exposure and become local stars, and increasing their exposure within the YouTube international community as well.

"We're very excited to bring a local version of YouTube to Canada, and are committed to continuing to improve the YouTube experience for our Canadian users," said Chad Hurley, CEO and co-founder of YouTube. "Our goal is to satisfy the unique needs of the local users and to further strengthen Canada's vibrant YouTube community."

YouTube has already signed various relationships with content partners in Canada - who have established or are establishing YouTube Channels - including Dose.ca, CBC, CFL, CommandN, NewsCanada, UNICEF, and SONY BMG Canada.