Girls and young women are disproportionately affected by both poverty and HIV. Donors, policymakers, researchers and program implementers are exploring economic empowerment programs as a strategy to improve the health and economic status of girls and young women. But the linkages between economic status and HIV status are complex, and the role that economic approaches play in preventing HIV infection and mitigating its impact is unproven. In April 2010, the International Center for Research on Women (ICRW), with support from the Nike Foundation, convened a meeting of researchers, program implementers, policymakers and donors to explore these linkages and approaches. Discussions among participants emphasized the complexity of the issues and highlighted many challenges and questions that need further exploration.