For all projects, a key selection criterion is the access of technologies meeting pressing needs of African smallholder farmers. In addition, in selecting projects to engage in, AATF takes into account the following criteria:

• the technology interventions provide solutions to end-users' needs
• product concepts must be developed through a participatory process
• the projects have the potential to enhance institutional synergies
• projects are achievable within reasonable timeframes
• projects that build a portfolio that reflects a reasonable geographic balance