American Express Signs Multi-Million Deal With Netscape

Netscape, a subsidiary of AOL, and American Express signed a two-year, multi-million dollar sponsorship pact to bring American Express financial services to small businesses via the Small Business Channel on Netcenter.

Small businesses represent a third of Netscape Netcenter’s 15 million registrants, providing AmEx an enticing market for its credit card and financing marketing efforts. Spending specifics were not disclosed.

Recently expanded in March, the Netscape Small Business Channel provides small businesses with one-stop access to content and tools aimed at helping them to manage and grow a successful business online.

American Express will be a premier sponsor in the channel gaining exposure through premium placement and banners ads.

“As a leader in worldwide financial services, American Express, will offer products and services that are consistent with our goal for the Netscape Small Business Channel — to simplify the Internet and help businesses manage and grow a successful business online,” said Barry Schuler, president of the AOL Interactive Services Group.

Among the American Express services to be featured are the company’s small business charge cards, credit cards, financial advisory services, small business lines of credit, equipment financing and card acceptance services.

Interested small business owners can click on an American Express banner on Netcenter and link to the appropriate section of the American Express Web site.