The outstanding success of the Tuvalu Trust Fund (TTF) in providing a stream of revenue to overcome a chronic budget deficit and encourage economic self reliance has led the Government of Tuvalu to extend the trust concept to outer island development. This paper looks at the role of trust funds in economic development in Pacific Island Countries including a brief review of relevant country experience. The success factors of the TTF are outlined along with how the trust fund concept is being adapted to bottom up community based development in Tuvalu. Lastly, possible future directions are explored.