A local action group Oulujärvi LEADER has worked in the rural region of the fourth largest lake in Finland (Lake Oulujärvi) since the year 1996. The activity area of Oulujärvi LEADER is 7 700 km² and has approximately 37 000 inhabitants. The territory of registered association Oulujärvi LEADER consists of five low population density municipalities; Kajaani, Paltamo, Puolanka, Vaala and Vuolijoki. The office of LAG Oulujärvi LEADER is located in Kajaani.