Betterton Corp and Alpine Inc often compete with one another in the marketplace. A new business area is emerging that appeals to both firms. However, organizations that will successfully compete in the new business area will need to have a robust laboratory capability as well as an established construction capability. Betterton has the former, and Alpine has the latter. Although unusual for two competitors, they negotiate and create a(n) . Under the terms of this agreement, Betterton and Alpine formally and jointly pursue their mutual goals.