In a move to capitalize on the potential for bigger online audiences, MTV Networks is set to distribute its wide range of programming on AOL Video by the end of the week.

Having already established distribution plans with emerging online forces like Bebo and Joost, the deal is aimed at drawing in AOL's substantially diverse audience with the network's equally broad range of programming. MTV, VH1, Comedy Central and Nickelodeon are among MTV Networks' properties.

"We are eager to expand our reach and drive viewers back to our sites," said Greg Clayman, MTV's executive vice president of digital distribution and marketing.

The new deal comes in a year when many networks are finding ways to distribute their content through a variety of outlets; NBC Universal and News Corp. partnered for the recent launch of Hulu.com, which will syndicate its programming to sites attracting 96 percent of all internet visitors, while CBS and ABC have set up distribution plans with AOL and MSN among others.--Kevin Manahan