For the third year in a row, Noor is offering a series of masterclasses for "young and aspiring documentary photographers" from developing countries and markets.

Ran in association with Nikon, the workshops are free and will see 15 photographers work under the supervision of three member photographers of the Noor photo agency - Stanley Greene, Philip Blenkinsop and Pep Bonet.

"These are motivational workshops," says Noor's managing director Claudia Hinterseer. "The participants come from emerging markets where there often isn't a developed educational framework in photography. We want to help them create networks and find the energy to pursue their career in photography."

This year, photographers from Bulgaria, Moldavia, Romania, Serbia and Ukraine are invited to submit their portfolios for a chance to attend the workshop. The successful candidates will see their travel and accommodation costs reimbursed, thanks to a partnership with Nikon Europe, says Hinterseer.

"When Noor launched three-and-a-half years ago, we talked to Nikon," Hinterseer tells BJP. "They support us on two levels - we're using their cameras, and they are supporting our aspirations, for example with our annual group project around climate change."

The partnership is also an opportunity for Nikon Europe to market its products in emerging markets and "spread the word that they are supporting photographers," says Hinterseer.

The next five-day workshop will take place in Bucharest, Romania from 21 March. Candidates must have basic English language skills, a good understanding of camera equipment and basic experience in documentary photography or photojournalism.

Deadline for entry is 27 February. For more details, visit the Noor website.