The Government Finance Institute (GFI) offers a unique opportunity to gain a well-rounded working knowledge of the core functional areas of government finance at a cost-conscious price. It is a comprehensive, two-level professional development program providing a series of in-depth sessions at both a Foundations and Advanced level. The Institute was created by some of NYGFOA’s most experienced government finance professionals from both the public and private sectors.
GFI is open to both NYGFOA members and non-members. Work in the private sector? GFI can improve your overall understanding of your clients’ world!
As the Advanced level builds on the Foundation level, you are encouraged to participate in the Foundations level first. Even if you are a seasoned professional - we all can benefit from a refresher!
Participation in GFI is easy and convenient. Core training sessions are available virtually - either Live (via Zoom) or recorded and available in our On Demand Library. Each core training program is reviewed, updated, and offered live every other year. After each live offering, the older On Demand recording is removed and replaced with the new recording. Most core programs are available in the On Demand Library, letting you participate at your convenience.
You should be recognized for your efforts. If you are committed to advancing your knowledge through GFI training, you should be recognized! Once you enroll in GFI (for a one-time fee of $75) you are presented with a framed certificate for each level completed. NYGFOA helps you keep track of your progress with a personalized GFI Credit Tracker for each level (updated after each session is completed). Please note that to earn the Advanced Level certificate, you must first complete the Foundations Level.
GFI enrollees who complete the requirements of each level 'graduate' and are formally recognized for their commitment to professional excellence. Graduates receive a framed Certificate of Professional Development for each level completed and recognition at the NYGFOA Annual Conference during the annual graduation ceremony. If attendance at the Annual Conference is not an option, the certificate presentation can be made at a regional event of the graduates’ choosing. Still not an option? Upon request, we can mail the framed certificate(s) to you and send a letter of acknowledgement to your supervisor and/or governing board. Graduates may also opt for acknowledgment of their accomplishment to be disseminated to desired media outlets. Ready to enroll? Please click HERE to continue to the enrollment page. Once enrolled you will receive your Credit Tracker.
Continue to scroll down this page for:
- The components for each level.
- The requirements if you officially enroll.
- The links to register for upcoming Live Virtual offerings.
- The link for the On Demand Library for the programs currently available.
To begin your journey, use any of the links below to register for sessions.
Questions: Email
UPCOMING LIVE VIRTUAL COMPONENTS
- Advanced Budgeting (Best Practices) | October 15, 2026 | 9a - 12noon
- Ethics and Professional Conduct for NYS CPAs | November 9 & 16, 2026 | 10a - 12noon
- Advanced Internal Control (Best Practices) | November 10, 2026 | 9a - 12noon
- Advanced Cash Management (Best Practices) | November 19, 2026 | 9a - 12noon
Visit the On Demand Library for previously recorded GFI programs as well as other educational offerings which qualify for GFI elective credit (elective credits apply to enrollees).
Visit the Calendar for all upcoming events.
Visit the Training page of the website for information on all NYGFOA's training opportunities.
Below is an outline of the sessions for each level.
Foundations Level
This level is designed for:
- Individuals (public or private sector) who are new to government finance.
- Individuals interested in learning about the core functional areas of government finance...
- Individuals seeking to refresh their understanding of the fundamentals.
- Individuals wishing to demonstrate their commitment to professional excellence.
Foundations
- 4 Core Foundations Sessions:
- Accounting & Financial Reporting
- Budgeting
- Cash Management
- Internal Control
To earn the Foundations level certificate, all four sessions, plus 9 GFI elective credits, must be completed within 3 years of program enrollment.
Advanced Level
This level is designed for:
- Individuals (public or private sector) who have completed the Foundations Level.
- Individuals who are seeking continuous learning challenges.
- Individuals interested in exploring other functions of government finance not directly related to their daily responsibilities.
Advanced
- 7 Core Advanced Sessions:
- Accounting
- Financial Reporting
- Debt Management
- Budgeting (Best Practices)
- Cash Management (Best Practices)
- Internal Control (Best Practices)
- Ethics
To earn the Advanced level certificate, all seven sessions, plus 12 GFI elective credits, must be completed within 3 years of program enrollment.
Electives - both levels (applies to Enrollees only)
Elective credits are based on a minimum 50-minute session and can be earned through various educational offerings conducted by NYGFOA. These include Annual Conference sessions, regional training seminars, live webinars, and recorded programs in the On Demand Library*.
* To earn credit for viewing a recorded session, GFI enrollees must pass a short quiz. Email