In light of increasing European integration, the collaboration of border regions with their foreign neighbors is becoming increasingly important. However, this cooperation is not always straightforward, even in regions with a long tradition of cross-border collaboration. Against this backdrop, the author examines which factors influence the success of cross-border cooperation. In addition to the theoretical analysis, the empirical investigation of two success models - EUREGIO Gronau and the Southern Upper Rhine - is the focus of the work. From these findings, the author derives proposals for political and institutional measures that could enhance the prospects for successful cross-border cooperation.