- #GFOA2025 in Washington, DC: Register
- Rethinking Budgeting: Learn More
- Becoming a CPFO: Start the Journey
The Speed We Need: Unlocking the Secrets of the Accelerated ACFR
Many local governments struggle to complete their Annual Comprehensive Financial Report (ACFR) on time and without excessive effort. This paper explores how governments can streamline the ACFR process to finish faster and with less strain—helping public finance officers avoid burnout and focus on other priorities.
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New GFOA Membership Model Launching August 2025
Today, GFOA Executive Director and CEO Chris Morrill announced important changes to how we offer memberships. Starting in August 2025, we’ll transition to a new membership model that includes unlimited access for all members within most governments—for a single annual price. This is an exciting change, and we encourage you to read the full statement at the link below. Also, keep watch for more details in the coming months as we enter this new chapter, TOGETHER.
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#GFOA2025 Closing Event Announced
Enjoy an exclusive night of entertainment at GFOA's 119th Annual Conference for attendees and guests featuring a performance by Night Ranger, Tuesday, July 1, at The Anthem in Washington, DC! Having sold over 17 Million albums worldwide, performed on over 4000 stages, and captivated a radio audience exceeding one billion, Night Ranger has epitomized and transcended the arena rock sound and style well beyond that era. Their legendary hits include "Sister Christian," "Don't Tell Me You Love Me," "When You Close Your Eyes," and "(You Can Still) Rock in America."
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#BuiltbyBonds Success Story
The Catawba Nuclear Station in South Carolina generates 2,310 megawatts of electricity. Piedmont Municipal Power Agency (PMPA) owns 285 megawatts of Unit 2, providing clean, carbon-free power to 10 communities, including Abbeville, Clinton, Easley, and more. This investment, part of a $3.6 billion project, represents PMPA's $496,000,000 ownership share of Unit 2.
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Build the Foundation for Excellence at GFOA's Best Practices Forum
Registration is now open for GFOA’s Best Practices Forum from September 15–19! This virtual event features nine sessions covering essential best practices, real-life case studies, and interactive exercises designed to help you improve and benchmark your organization’s performance. Earn up to 18 CPE credits with your participation.
RegisterUpcoming Events & Deadlines
- View Full Events Calendar
Utility Finance Forum Online Networking Event – Capital Planning and Disaster Preparedness
Wed, April 23, 2025
View detailsBudgeting Best Practices Monthly Series: Focus on Understanding the Budget
Fri, April 25, 2025
View details
GFOA's New Leadership Academy is Chicago
In addition to our established programs in Phoenix and Charleston, we’re excited to introduce a third academy in Chicago this July. This immersive, weeklong experience is designed to develop leadership skills tailored to public finance professionals, combining interactive sessions, case studies, and peer discussions. From self-assessments and leadership strategies to values-driven public service, participants will gain the insights and tools needed to lead effectively in state and local government. Apply by May 16.
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CPFO Spotlight

Jené Jess
Jené Jess, finance and employee services director for the City of Bondurant, Iowa, began her CPFO journey to validate her skills, knowledge, and education obtained throughout her career, as her formal educational background is not in accounting. She also aimed to deepen her understanding of the finance profession and its complexities. Throughout the process Jené has learned that finance is a broad field with numerous disciplines and specialties. She has found a greater appreciation for the diverse skills and expertise needed in public finance. She encourages others thinking about becoming a CPFO to make time for it and to appreciate the knowledge gained from exam preparation.
Read moreStart your own CPFO journeyMembership
Join GFOA
We are a resource, an educator, a facilitator, and an advocate for our members — more than 25,000 finance professionals across the United States and Canada.
Member Benefits
Being a member of our community has its perks! By joining, you'll get discounted pricing on awards and training, access to leadership and volunteer opportunities, inclusion in member forums, and much more.
Networking

Connecting Leaders in Urban Governance
Are you looking to exchange ideas and solutions with others facing similar urban finance challenges? GFOA’s Urban Forum offers a space to connect through exclusive networking events, interactive webinars, and an online member Community for sharing resources and discussions. Plus, don’t miss the dedicated Urban Forum session at GFOA’s Annual Conference. Participation is free for GFOA members and a great way to learn, share, and grow with your peers.
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Awards
Our award programs recognize excellence in government finance.
Best Practices
GFOA's best practices identify specific policies and procedures that contribute to improved government management.
Rethinking Initiatives
We're taking a deep dive into budgeting, revenue, and financial reporting.
Workforce Resources
Articles, research, and case studies to help governments now and in the future.
Publications & Subscriptions
2024 GAAFR
The 2024 edition of the GAAFR is your go-to resource for the latest accounting rules and how to implement them.
GAAFR Plus
Need more in-depth guidance in local government accounting, auditing, and financial reporting? GFOA’s GAAFR Plus offers important resources to help navigate the ever-changing world of public finance. Take advantage of this subscription today!