First Data Partners With eCongo

Merchant processor First Data Corp. has signed a deal to market its processing services through eCongo.com Inc., a provider of free e-commerce software to Web merchants. Los Gatos, Calif.-based eCongo, which distributes software both directly to small merchants and to middlemen, has incorporated Atlanta-based First Data's merchant-processing services into its software so that client merchants can apply for a merchant account online and process credit card payments in real time.

     NTB Merchant Services, a joint venture between First Data and Chicago-based The Northern Trust Co., will be the acquirer for eCongo merchants. A First Data spokesperson says that, beginning in the third quarter, eCongo clients will also be able to accept electronic-check payments and cash payments made through Western Union Financial Services, an Englewood, Co.-based First Data subsidiary.