This paper offers a comparative analysis of the innovation policy generations developed and implemented by different Spanish regions. The authors find three main approaches. Most regions follow linear-type policies that are not specifically adapted to the system of innovation in which they are applied. A small number of regions are implementing more-advanced policies characterised by (1) fostering mutual-learning across the actors in the innovation system and (2) the development of an institutional framework with many intermediate organisations and infrastructures providing knowledge-intensive services.