The mandate for and benefits of collaborative efforts between higher education and business and industry are considered, and case studies that can serve as models and sources for consultation are presented of successful collaborative efforts on the local, regional, state, and national levels. Literature and research gathered through the Higher Education/Comprehensive Employment and Training Act (CETA) Project of the American Council on Education is used in support of collaborative processes and programs. The current increased interest in linkage efforts is typified by the prevalence of conferences, forums, and related collaborative programs. The problems that indicate a need for collaboration include: students enter the labor force without adequate basic skills, the state of the economy, the need to adjust to rapid change, and the unmet demand for highly skilled workers. Higher education contributes to business and industry by developing employment-related programs, professional training, and lifelong learning opportunities, while business/industry support career education and occupational training in a variety of ways. Collaborative efforts are frequently significant on the local community level, and more projects are being developed at the state level. (SW)