by John Vomhof Jr.

Digital River Inc. has acquired Direct Response Technologies Inc. for approximately $15 million in cash.

Pittsburgh-based Direct Response provides affiliate technology and online marketing software.

Under the deal, Eden Prairie-based Digital River receives Direct Response's DirectTrack affiliate management platform, KeywordMax paid-search bid management tool, DNEList e-mail campaign and list-suppresssion applications, and DirectLeads online marketing network. The acquisition does not include Direct Response's MyCoupons or GiftCards.com services.

Digital River (NASDAQ: DRIV) bought all of Direct Response's stock for $15 million in cash. Direct Response shareholders could also receive earn-out payments if the combined company achieves certain earnings and revenue targets during the first three years following the merger.