• by David Goetzl  @dgoetzl, May 22, 2012

MundoFox, the Hispanic-targeted network set to launch in August, has added a presence in Chicago and says it expects to add affiliates in New York and Houston soon. The network, with Spanish-language versions of U.S. programming, such as NatGeo Kids, the UFC and original programs, is a joint venture between News Corp. and Colombian broadcaster RCN.

The network said it could have deals available in about 70% of U.S. Hispanic homes, having landed a presence so far in 40-plus markets. Stations in Los Angeles -- the largest Hispanic market -- and Miami -- No. 3 -- have already been landed.

MundoFox held an upfront presentation last week. The network is "poised to be a legitimate competitor in the U.S. Hispanic broadcast space, given what appears to be its significant investment in content … combined with a robust promotional plan,” stated Marcy Greenberger, a top executive at Tapestry, part of Starcom MediaVest Group, which recently cut a large deal with Univision.

Among MundoFox affiliates are stations owned by Entravision, the largest station group for competitor Univision Communications. Fox owns the station in Washington, D.C.

Upcoming shows include what MundoFox touts as a Spanish version of “Sex and the City,” as well as a police drama and a supernatural drama.