Research and clinical trials of new HIV prevention technologies, such as vaccines, microbicides and pre-exposure prophylaxis, provide hope for more effective prevention of HIV transmission. Communities are aware of research developments and need timely, accurate information which they can use to inform and engage their members. In response to this need, the Canadian AIDS Society, the Canadian AIDS Treatment Information Exchange and the Interagency Coalition on  AIDS and Development, in partnership with the Coalition des organismes Québécois de lutte contre le sida, hosted a one-day meeting in Montreal on March 4, 2010 with 74 registered participants from a variety of communities. International and Canadian presenters provided updates on research, ethics and community preparedness. Participants engaged in dialogue with the presenters and each other.