Software services company WebCollage has completed a $16 million first round of financing, backed by international technology investment firms including Sierra Ventures, Gilde IT Fund and Israeli-based Cedar Fund.

The company said its software would allow users to access business applications without having to leave a Web site. WebCollage said this enables its clients to maintain stickiness with their visitors, bump up brand recognition and broaden market penetration.

The Alley-based company intends to use the cash infusion to fuel its development of a syndicated software service that enables Internet companies to package Web-based applications and distribute them to multiple partner sites. As a part of the arrangement, Steve Williams, a general partner with Sierra Ventures, will join WebCollage's board of directors.

Eli Singer, the CEO of WebCollage said "The international scope and experience of our investors and the addition of Steve Williams to our board of directors, with his unique blend of operational and investment expertise, will prove invaluable as we bring our solution to an even broader range of customers."

WebCollage's decision to parlay funding from venture capitalists familiar with the international landscape underscores the company's goal to branch out into other markets across the pond.

Gilde has more than 80 investments in the IT industry in Europe, U.S. and Israel. Through Gilde, and others in its 011 rolodex, WebCollage expects to dip into international resources which otherwise are not as easily accessible.

Singer said the funding would be sufficient for a year and that the $10,000 licensing fee he collects from clients would supplement its day-to-day operations.