go2 - a Stage1Ventures portfolio company - has partnered with MasterCard Worldwide to launch a new mobile service. MasterCard Nearby is an information delivery service that allows cardholders to use their mobile phones to locate points of interest like ATM and merchant information, driving directions, rewards and special offers.

All US MasterCard cardholders are eligible to sign up for MasterCard Nearby at MCnearby.com. The service provides timely access and convenience to busy MasterCard cardholders.

"The short-term strategic objective that this addresses is the continued expansion of the location-enabled Mobile Content Network through this partnership with MasterCard," said Lee Hancock, CEO and founder of go2. "The longer-term strategy is to align go2 with a marquee brand and pervasive service like MasterCard, with millions of merchants and users, as we continue our efforts to connect consumers with merchants via their phones."

MasterCard Nearby members will be able to customize their mobile experience with the information relevant to their needs. The information can then be presented via their mobile phone browser or via an SMS message.

"The first challenge this relationship addresses is the need for consumer awareness of the mobile Web," Mr. Hancock said. "The second is the ongoing need for more accurate and compelling local information. Getting information on-the-go on mobile phones is very valuable to mobile phone users, and MasterCard can promote this service to generate awareness with consumers. In addition, the special MasterCard merchant offers for premium users provide more compelling and valuable information to mobile phone users."

Additional information about the MasterCard Nearby service can be found at MCnearby.com.