Rethinking Budgeting: A Call to Action

The budgeting process has long been a cornerstone of local government operations. It’s where policy goals meet financial reality. Yet for many years, the public sector has relied on outdated models—designed for stability and compliance more than agility or responsiveness. Now, that is beginning to change.

Read more
Rethinking Budgeting logo.
Image of Standing Committees.

Standing Committee Applications Open

Strong leadership in today’s evolving landscape is essential, and GFOA members have a valuable opportunity to help shape the future of public finance by serving on a standing committee. GFOA’s six standing committees meet twice a year and play a key role in developing best practices, advisories, and policy statements that guide the profession. The deadline to apply is August 15.

Apply
Image of Award.

Best Practices in Action

Has your government launched an innovative policy or program that reflects outstanding financial management? Share your success by applying for GFOA’s Awards for Excellence. This award recognizes practical, proven work that sets an example for the profession and advances public finance. Applications are due by August 29.

Apply
Recognition for Outstanding Public Service logo.

Announcing 2025 Recognition Recipients

We're proud to recognize 53 individuals with the GFOA Recognition for Outstanding Public Service award. These members work behind the scenes to lead, support, and serve their organizations and communities with integrity and excellence. Throughout the year, we’ll be celebrating their achievements at the annual conference, on our website, and across social media. Their stories remind us of the vital role finance professionals play in making government work—and why their dedication matters

View Winners
Magazine Cover.

Explore the June Issue of Government Finance Review

This month's magazine highlights secrets to the accelerated ACFR, the first principles of public finance, lessons for estimating city revenue, 10 steps to reducing personnel costs, Rethinking Budgeting in action, member spotlights, and much more.

Read more

CPFO Spotlight

Image of hands together.

Celebrating June CPFOs

Join us in congratulating the following members who completed their certification journeys in June and are now Certified Public Finance Officers: Emily Barton, CPFO, Murray City, Utah; Gretchen Burns, CPFO, Arkansas State University; Brooke Freeman, CPFO, Stanislaus County Sheriff’s Office, California; Amanda Henegar, CPFO, Town of Abingdon, Virginia; Catherine Latimer, CPFO, Henrico County, Virginia; Diana Oyler, CPFO, Contra Costa County, California; Kaushik Saha, CPFO, Cleveland Water, Ohio; Jacqueline Simpson, CPFO, Howard County, Maryland; and Hope Torres, CPFO, Genesee County Drain Commissioner, Michigan.

View spotlightsStart your own CPFO journey

Membership

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.

Join now

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.

View all benefits

Networking

Join GFOA Affinity Groups

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!

Read moreView All GFOA Affinity Groups

Additional Resources

Awards

Our award programs recognize excellence in government finance.

View details

Best Practices

GFOA's best practices identify specific policies and procedures that contribute to improved government management.

View details

Rethinking Initiatives

We're taking a deep dive into budgeting, revenue, and financial reporting.

View details

Workforce Resources

Articles, research, and case studies to help governments now and in the future.

View details

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.

View details

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!

View details