THE UK Film Council and its US office is offering two British directors from black, Asian and minority ethnic communities the chance to take part in six invaluable days of networking and relationship building.

The two UK directors will be sponsored to participate in the Tribeca All Access programme which will run from 20-25 April 2009 at the Tribeca Film Festival in New York.

The successful directors will receive a fully paid place on the programme which comprises an intense six days of panels, meetings and networking opportunities with senior film industry executives as well as accreditation for the Tribeca Film Festival.

The programme is in its sixth year and supports the careers of directors who are seeking funding and exposure for new projects and are from under-represented communities in the film industry. The scheme is open to both established and emerging filmmakers with projects in development which can be of any budget and based on any subject matter or genre.

Participants also receive support throughout the year through the TAA On Track programme which includes the use of digital filmmaking and editing equipment for films shot in the US, promotional support for completed films, Tribeca Film Institute hosted presentation screenings and educational panels and workshops.

Marcia Williams, head of diversity at the UK Film Council said: "The Tribeca All Access programme has become renowned as an excellent platform for emerging and established filmmakers to advance their careers. We’re really pleased to be able to support the scheme this year and help two talented UK directors from minority ethnic backgrounds to advance their careers and gain exposure for their work."

Tamir Muhammad, programme manager of Tribeca All Access said: "We are excited to be able to expand our efforts to filmmakers in the UK by giving them the access and support to tell their stories.

"Our continued partnerships with international organisations such as the UK Film Council and its US Office allows us to promote a forum where high-level film industry executives can meet with a diverse and exceptionally talented group of filmmakers."

Applicants are required to apply with either a completed feature-length screenplay for their narrative film project or a thorough proposal for their work-in-progress documentary project.

For the full application guidelines, visit www.ukfilmcouncil.org.uk/taa

The deadline for applications is Monday 12 January 2009.