- Executive Board: Apply by February 7
- Becoming a CPFO: Start the Journey
- On-Demand Learning: View New Courses
Howard County Encourages Professional Growth Through CPFO Program
Rafiu Ighile, director of finance for Howard County, Maryland, has spearheaded a new initiative to support and encourage his team to become Certified Public Finance Officers (CPFO). Recognizing the importance of professional development, Ighile’s leadership has made obtaining the CPFO designation more accessible and equitable for employees, paving the way for a stronger and more knowledgeable workforce.
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New Research: Playing the Budget Game
Budget officers need good information to make savvy and wise budget decisions. The better the information, the better the chances of good decisions. However, budget games can distort or hide information. This new report delves into different games and explains why budget officers must be aware of them.
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2024 Awards for Excellence Winners Announced
GFOA’s Awards for Excellence in Government Finance recognize innovative programs that provide creative solutions to common challenges and highlight GFOA best practices in action. This year, we celebrate seven winners for their innovation, commitment to excellence in government finance, and outstanding financial management.
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Leadership Opportunity: Apply for GFOA's Executive Board
Put your leadership skills and knowledge of public finance to work to help members continue to build thriving communities. Board members serve a three-year term and are expected to participate in all meetings, including three on-site meetings per year, plus GFOA's committee meetings. Applications are due by February 7.
Learn moreUpcoming Events & Deadlines
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SGF Professional Development Webinar: Positive Arbitrage - What You Need to Know
Wed, January 22, 2025
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#GFOA2025: First Early Registration Discount Deadline is January 31
Join us from June 29–July 2, 2025, at the Walter E. Washington Convention Center in Washington, DC! Take advantage of 70+ CPE-accredited sessions, inspiring keynotes, and interactive leadership workshops designed to expand your expertise in government finance. Learn directly from leading experts, researchers, and practitioners, and bring invaluable insights back to your organization and community. Plus, network and connect with peers from across the nation and around the world through numerous social and collaborative events! Register by January 31 to save!
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CPFO Spotlight
Debbie O'Brien
Debbie O'Brien, CPFO, is an Accountant II for the City of Dover, Delaware. Debbie was inspired to pursue the certification to prepare for leadership opportunities within her organization. Along the way, she gained a deeper understanding of the complexities of government finance. Debbie views the CPFO program as a career-transforming experience, providing her with knowledge she’ll use throughout her career and in future endeavors, like supporting non-profits. She encourages others to take the leap, highlighting the program’s rich learning opportunities and practical value for public finance professionals at all stages.
Read MoreStart your own CPFO journeyMembership
Join GFOA
We are a resource, an educator, a facilitator, and an advocate for our members — more than 24,000 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
Discover GFOA’s Urban Forum
GFOA's Urban Forum (UF) provides an opportunity for members of large governments to network and exchange information on topics unique to the demands of managing their large and complex entities. Membership in UF is free and open to GFOA members in large jurisdictions.
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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!