Most of the really poor nations have more resources than we might be aware of, but they are used (or rather abused) by corrupt administration and usually in ways that are not productive to a stronger economy. This shouldn't be a problem in societies where everybody live in the same way, as hunters-gatherers. The problems begin when a handful of opportunists gain control of the natural resources (Animal Farm rings a bell?)
So basically money in itself is not very helpful, but when applied to allow for infrastructure, and opening real business ventures, it could help. Of course it would also help if everyone were honest, but that's really over acheiving