This paper presents a survey and characterization of partnerships between state schools in São Paulo and enterprises, in 1996 and 1997. After showing Government initiatives to increase this partnership at state level, are presented statements of school principals and representatives of partner enterprises that show the wideness, nature and prospects of actions in development. It is evident that at the same time we see an increasing governmental involvement to develop partnerships, in last years, there is not a correspondent raise of this practice at state level.