The network's programming draws partially from the U.S. version of the channel, but it also carries original Canadian-produced series, some of which have in turn also been picked up for broadcast by the U.S. network or others internationally, as well as a smaller selection of home renovation programming acquired from other producers in the United States or the United Kingdom.
History
In September 1996, Your Channel Television Inc., a company majority owned by Atlantis Communications with minority partner E. W. Scripps Company, was granted a television broadcasting licence by the Canadian Radio-television and Telecommunications Commission (CRTC) for a channel called HGTV-TV Canada, described at the time as broadcasting "programming that presents practical, hands-on advice and instruction about homes and gardens. The programming will revolve[needs update?] around five key themes: building and remodelling, decorating and interior design, gardening and landscaping, crafts and hobbies and special interests."[2]
The channel was launched as HGTV on October 17, 1997.[3] Channels also launched that day were History Television, Teletoon, and Prime. In June 1998,[4] Atlantis Communications announced that it planned to merge with Alliance Communications, another fellow television and film producer and broadcaster, owners of History Television and Showcase at the time,[5] to form a new company called Alliance Atlantis Communications. The CRTC approved the merger in May 1999.[5]
On October 27, 2010, the channel's ownership changed again as Shaw Communications gained control of HGTV as a result of its acquisition of Canwest and Goldman Sachs' interest in CW Media.[9][10]
A high definition feed launched on January 31, 2011.[11] It is available through all major television providers.
On April 1, 2016, Shaw Media was sold to Corus Entertainment. This gave HGTV some new sister channels throughout its lifespan.
Some of its original Canadian-produced series have also been acquired by the U.S. version of the network; in particular, Property Brothers has been among the U.S. version's top programs.[12]