- #GFOA2025 is Next Month: Register
- Upcoming Membership Changes: Learn More
- Becoming a CPFO: Start the Journey
Building a Structurally Balanced Budget
Understanding public finance can feel like learning a new language—filled with complex terms and technical jargon. But at the heart of it all is one concept that’s both essential and refreshingly straightforward: structural budget balance. While many financial principles in government differ from personal finance, this one resonates across both worlds. So, what exactly does it mean—and how can governments put it into practice?
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2025 Academic Scholarship Winners Announced
We’re proud to recognize 11 exceptional students as recipients of GFOA’s 2025 academic scholarships, totaling $130,000 in awards. These scholarships reflect GFOA’s continued commitment to supporting the next generation of public finance professionals. Students were selected by a committee composed of members from GFOA’s Executive Board.
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What's in the April Issue of GFR?
The latest issue of Government Finance Review features articles on our upcoming membership changes, an overview of effective project governance, updates on the latest PCI standards, insights into the art of writing fiscal notes, understanding new solutions for public-sector risk management, member spotlights, and much more. Don't miss the opportunity to stay informed and inspired.
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#GFOA2025 Begins Next Month
With more than 80 engaging sessions, this year’s conference, June 29-July 2 is your opportunity to explore the latest trends and best practices in public finance. Learn from industry experts and thought leaders as they share valuable insights to help you enhance your skills and expand your knowledge. You’ll leave with actionable strategies you can use to lead real change in your organization and your community.
Register today
#BuiltbyBonds Success Story
In the City of Evansdale, Iowa, a $4.9 million investment is rebuilding the future—one road at a time? The Lafayette Road Reconstruction Project is replacing an 82-year-old roadway that has long outlived its useful life. Supported in part by DOT funding and made possible through General Obligation Bonds, the project will not only restore a critical transportation corridor but also add stormwater infrastructure to help the city better manage high water events. It’s an investment in resilience, safety, and long-term service for the entire community.
Submit Your StoryUpcoming Events & Deadlines
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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.
Register
CPFO Spotlight
Celebrating April CPFOs
Congratulations are in order for the following members who completed their certification journeys in April and are now Certified Public Finance Officers: Antonio Aiello, CPFO, from the City of San Luis Obispo, California; Dalton Larson, CPFO, from Anoka County, Minnesota; Adam Vaughn, CPFO, from the City of Toppenish, Washington; and Lynne Wisdom, CPFO, from Mineral Area College in Missouri.
View CPFO SpotlightsStart your own CPFO journeyMembership
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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.
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GFOA’s Affinity Groups offer members a unique opportunity to connect with peers who share similar roles, backgrounds, or interests within the field of government finance. Whether you're a new professional, a small government representative, a woman in public finance, or part of a specific identity group, these member-led communities provide a welcoming space for networking, shared learning, and support. By joining an affinity group, you’ll gain access to targeted discussions, resources, and events that help you grow both personally and professionally—while contributing to a more inclusive and connected GFOA community. Explore the groups and get involved today!
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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!