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Critics argue that high-external-input technologies (HEIT) are too costly for African farmers, and that programs to promote them are economically unsustainable. This paper assesses Sasakawa-Global 2000 programs in Ethiopia and Mozambique, using financial and economic analysis, yield models, and subsector analysis. The SG 2000 technology was much more profitable in Ethiopia than in Mozambique, but varied depending on production location, fertilizer and transport costs, domestic and international prices, regional surplus or deficit conditions, and production as import substitute or export. The case studies provide further evidence that high-input technologies can be successfully introduced through well-funded high-profile programs, but not conclusive evidence that such programs can be scaled up and sustained. Five major implications are discussed, concerning (1) prospects for scaling up and sustaining HEIT adoption, (2) the need for expanded profitability analysis, (3) the role of trade prospects and policies, (4) institution-building requirements, and (5) infrastructure investments to reduce marketing costs. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]