OBJECTIVES: It has been asserted that "decisions regarding the allocation of public HIV prevention funds represent the single most important set of HIV prevention decisions made," (Ruiz et al., 2000; p.19). As a result, several approaches to allocating these funds have been proposed. However, the application of these models is limited because the measurements of performance are usually not quantifiable in real practice. This research outlines a resource allocation model that can be used to assist decision-makers in allocating HIV prevention funds. METHODS: The current process of allocating HIV prevention funds within various states was reviewed in detail. Specifically, population subgroup, intervention, and geographical issues were considered. In addition, measures of successful intervention implementation were identified. After this thorough review, parameters (i.e., prevalence, infectivity, input from local planning groups) deemed to be important in determining the proper allocation of funds were identified. These parameter choices were guided by the need to be able to estimate parameter values from available data systems. Using linear programming techniques, a model based on our parameter choices was developed for used by decision-makers that incorporates a quantifiable measure of success. This model also includes funding and equity constraints. RESULTS: An allocation of funds can be made such that several system constraints can be considered and the model can be validated through prospective data collection. The model was programmed in Microsoft Excel(r) with a user-friendly interface and was prototyped within a state health department's allocation system.