To address longstanding audit delays by enhancing staffing, professional development, financial systems, and data security

The Office of The Governor of the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands received a $1.5 million Project Grant from the Department of the Interior's Office of Insular Affairs under the Economic, Social, and Political Development of the Territories program (CFDA 15.875), awarded November 6, 2025, with completion targeted for September 30, 2029. This grant funds a comprehensive audit capacity and financial management improvement initiative designed to address longstanding audit delays and enhance governmental operational efficiency across the territory.

The project delivers multiple integrated services including an audit catch-up plan, recruitment and onboarding of additional qualified audit personnel, expanded professional development and training programs, and specialized instruction on the MUNIS financial management system. The initiative also incorporates enhancements to financial systems and data security infrastructure to support improved audit timeliness and overall financial stewardship across territorial operations by fiscal year 2027.

The project will increase audit timeliness by FY 2027 through a comprehensive audit catch-up plan, hiring additional qualified personnel, and expanding professional training, including specialized instruction on the munis financial management system.