Expertise in accounting and finance is essential for self-management of Indigenous communities and organizations. The Certified Aboriginal Financial Manager (CAFM) designation is designed to help our communities meet the growing need for financial leadership tailored to the Indigenous culture. CAFMs are key decision makers and leaders in their organizations and often form the backbone of Indigenous government administration.

Junior and intermediate level financial professionals are also in demand. The CAFM program provides students with the opportunity to learn skills for those positions, with certificate and diploma qualifications, as they progress on the path to the CAFM. For those who take the CAFM Education Program, a pathway to grow into the Chartered Professional Accountant designation.

In July 2008, the Chiefs-in-Assembly passed a resolution at the Assembly of First Nations Annual General Assembly, signaling their support of the CAFM as a credential when hiring personnel in financial and management positions.