This paper examines co-operative innovation and Research and Development (R&D) behaviour between Argentine and

Spanish firms. Based on theoretical perspectives from the literature, we present empirical evidence obtained from 104

firms of patterns of cooperation in several processes and out-puts, highlighting firm characteristics, the motives of the

collaborating parties, types of partners, R&D and innovation activities, leadership, and obstacles to cooperation. Our

results reveal that the determinants of success differ considerably among countries depending on the sector, the firm

specific characteristics and funding. These differences have important implications for public policy and instruments to

support R&D and innovation activities.