There is a mixed record of sustainable outcomes from donor-funded R&D investment in aquaculture in the Pacific region. The market size and commercial viability of aquaculture enterprises, amongst other factors, place significant constraints on uptake of innovations at the scale needed and long-term viability and “strength” . FUTUREFISH is a UK aquaculture company that specialises on business solutions for small-scale aquaculture. The paper provides the results of an assessment of tilapia aquaculture enterprises in the Pacific and insights from aquaculture businesses within and outside of the region on potential critical success factors and considerations for future aquaculture investment within the Pacific, with special attention to tilapia aquaculture. The research presented is part of a review being supported by the Australian Centre for International Agriculture Research (ACIAR).