About NAFOA
NAFOA was founded over four decades ago as the Native American Finance Officers Association to highlight the role of tribal finance in fostering economic opportunities. Since that time, NAFOA has grown along with tribal economies. We are committed to supporting tribal economies through sound economic and fiscal policy, innovative learning opportunities, convening thought leadership, and developing resources for tribes that strengthen governance and exercise sovereignty.
What We Do
NAFOA advocates for sound economic and fiscal policy, develops innovative training programs in financial management, builds the financial and economic skills of the next generation, and convenes tribal leadership, experienced professionals, and economic partners to meet the challenges of economic growth and change.
Who We Are
Our History Highlights
NAFOA Founded
Founded over 40 years ago, the Native American Finance Officers Association started as a gathering for tribal financial professionals working to develop policies and procedures necessary for their tribes to succeed.
1st Annual Leadership Awards
The NAFOA Leadership Awards honors the accomplishments of a tribal leader, tribal executive, financial deal advancing tribal economies and an education program positively impacting Native Americans.
Orange Book Published
The Financial Reporting and Information Guide for Tribal Governments and Their Enterprises (Orange Book) at NAFOA’s 35th Annual Conference.
Inaugural Leadership Summit Class
NAFOA welcomes six young Native American leaders to the inaugural Leadership Summit class at the 35th Annual Conference in San Francisco, CA.
Responding to the COVID-19 pandemic
NAFOA leads inter-organizational efforts to advocate for relief for tribes.
40th Anniversary
NAFOA celebrated its 40th Anniversary in Seattle, WA with the Suquamish Tribe as host.
First Sold Out Conference
2023 Fall Finance & Tribal Economies Conference hosted by Gila River Indian Community
For the first time in NAFOA history, we maxed out capacity for a conference.
What does "NAFOA" stand for?
Founded over 40 years ago, the Native American Finance Officers Association started as a gathering for tribal financial professionals working to develop policies and procedures necessary for their tribes to succeed. Since that time, NAFOA’s mission has grown to support growing tribal economies.
Note to Press: Please refer to our organization as “NAFOA,” or “NAFOA, founded as the Native American Finance Officers Association.” For press or media inquiries, please contact Bettina Gonzalez, Director of Communications, at bettina@nafoa.org.