This paper studies the dynamics of horizontal and vertical coordination arising from a set of sectoral and intersectoral projects in the border areas of Colombia–Venezuela and Brazil–Argentina. These are characterized by some common features such as population density, conurbation and trade patterns that in the absence of border regulation policies strengthen border security and development guidelines and extend local leadership. Officials and directors named in local governance networks were surveyed and interviewed at the municipal level. This research concludes that patterns of feedback between the local and the national are fundamental to the success of limited and informal initiatives, but strategic in cross-border cooperation and interaction.