Coinciding with the 20th anniversary of the Berkshire International Film Festival (BIFF) the Delegation of the European Union to the United States has selected BIFF as the inaugural U.S. festival partner for its newly launched Transatlantic Rising Stars Project. The initiative is “designed to deepen cultural connections and spark creative collaboration between the EU and the United States.”
On Tuesday, it opened its first call for EU film directors to apply for the 2026 edition. The 20th festival of BIFF will run May 28 to May 31, 2026 in the Berkshires in Massachusetts.
During BIFF’s 20th anniversary celebration, the selected directors will participate in the festival’s Filmmaker Summit and present their work in a dedicated European Filmmakers Showcase.
Funded by the European Union, the Transatlantic Rising Stars Project, supports artists in film, visual arts, and music through immersive, on-the-ground experiences in the United States. Beginning in 2026, selected EU filmmakers will embark on a fully funded two-week exploration of the American film landscape between mid-May and early June.
“As we celebrate our 20th anniversary, BIFF is stepping confidently into its next chapter. Our partnership with the Transatlantic Rising Stars Project not only elevates emerging voices, but it also reinforces the Berkshires as a vibrant crossroads for global storytelling. We’re honored to help open new doors for creative talent while marking a milestone year for the festival.” said Kelley Vickery, founder and artistic director at BIFF.
“This program is a landmark moment — the first time the EU has created a program designed to bring European artists to the U.S.,” EU Ambassador to the U.S. Jovita Neliupšienė said. “American and European artists will be working side by side, creating new pieces that connect with local communities — all the way from Alaska to Massachusetts. I hope this program will create lasting friendships and networks that not only boost the artists’ careers but also help Americans and Europeans understand each other better.”
Applications to apply are open from December 2, 2025, to January 16, 2026. The application portal is available on the EU Delegation to the United States website.
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‘ Some details of this article were extracted from the following source variety.com ’
