The two firms will work together over the next 15 months to enhance the profile of the marketing data services sector within the direct marketing industry.
As part of the agreement, Equifax will provide sponsorship for the 2008 and 2009 DMA Awards, regional and networking events, data-focused seminars, conferences and symposia, and the Young Spark Award organised by DMA Scotland.
The partnership has been formed as a result of the two organisations's mutual interest in promoting understanding of the scope and power of consumer and business marketing data for direct marketing campaigns.
Mike Barnes, DMA's director of marketing and business development, said: "Data and data intelligence is at the heart of what we do and needs a higher profile, especially considering the current financial climate and the environmental issues facing the industry."
Equifax holds one of the largest sources of consumer and commercial data.
Chris Sherlock, marketing director for Equifax, said: "Marketers have faced a number of challenges over the last few years and we are certain that these will only increase in the foreseeable future.
"Properly targeted, good quality data should play a key role in helping marketers meet these challenges. We look forward to working with the DMA and its members to maximise the full potential of marketing data to create the most impactful and cost-effective campaigns."