These associations number around 2,600 altogether. Training courses, excursions, study tours, catering services, and sharing of agricultural machinery among members are examples of the activities arranged by the associations. The Centre for Country Women and Homemakers - with its membership of 120,000 is the largest women's organization in Finland and plays a major role in rural extension work. The Association of Rural Advisory Centres and the Centre for Country Women and Homemakers are the Finnish-language umbrella organizations for the rural advisory bodies. Their principal duties include development of services, training of personnel, design of computer software, and production of extension materials.
Active collaboration is maintained with the corresponding Swedish-language sister organization.
Another thirteen specialized advisory bodies also belong to the Association of Rural Advisory Centres, thus making their expert services available to the membership. The Rural Advisory Centres and their umbrella organizations finance their operations primarily by service fees charged from clients and by state rural development subsidies, as well as by proceeds from other activities. The state subsidy covers around one third of the expenses. The Rural Advisory Centres make up an extensive network covering the entire country, thus possessing a sound knowledge of local conditions and comprehensive know-how on the different requirements of rural enterprises. Cooperation with the Rural Advisory Centres makes it possible to utilize their experience and expertise in promoting agribusiness and other rural development.