A package of support worth £366,000 has helped 244 small businesses since the emergence of the Omicron variant.
The scheme, known as the Additional Restrictions Grant, was launched to support businesses outside the business rates system.
Successful applicants were awarded a one-off payment of £1,500.
The package has helped businesses in the hospitality, events, leisure and travel sectors, including sole traders and businesses based at home.
The funding comes from the government and forms part of the plan to support and boost the economy.
The money has been fully allocated in support of businesses in need.
Cllr Tom Cunningham, Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Economic Growth at Braintree District Council, said: “We've used our discretion with this scheme to help some of the smaller businesses who play an important role in supporting our residents and communities. We've worked hard to get these grants out as quickly as possible in an effort to protect businesses, jobs and livelihoods as we bounce back from the impact of this pandemic."
Alex Pether from Party Party Event Hire in Sible Hedingham said: “The grant support has helped immensely in allowing our business to continue trading as things have eased over the last few months. We found the application process straightforward, easy to navigate and received the funds without delay. We are a small, family run business and this support has been invaluable in helping us through what has been a challenging time.”
Party Party Event Hire provide a range of products for both indoor and outdoor celebrations. People can visit www.partypartyeventhire.co.uk to find out more.
Braintree District Council has issued £55.9 million in business grants to more than 3,000 businesses since the government’s financial support measures began as a result of the Covid-19 crisis.
The grants form one part of the package of support. In an effort to help businesses bounce back as restrictions ease, Braintree District Council is boosting the look and feel of shop fronts and organising events and activities in a bid to increase footfall and encourage people back into town centres.