A new grant scheme has been launched to support more local businesses impacted by COVID restrictions and the rise of the Omicron variant.
Harlow Council has received funding from the government to distribute to local businesses via the Additional Restrictions Grant (ARG) funding scheme.
This scheme aims to support businesses that are not eligible for an Omicron Leisure and Hospitality Grant.
Due to the limited amount of funding available, businesses will be invited to apply on a sector basis and applications will be reviewed in line with the scheme’s priorities.
Phase 1 and 2 of the scheme are open for applications until midday on 24 February 2022. Subject to funding, phase 3 and 4 of the scheme will open for applications from Friday 25 February until midday on 11 March 2022.
In addition to the eligibility criteria, businesses must:
have been severely impacted by the pandemic or the rise in the omicron variant
be solvent and not face a striking-off notice or liquidation
have been trading on 30 December 2021 and continuing to trade
The grant cannot be used to subsidise wage costs or income loss.
Councillor James Leppard, Harlow Council’s Cabinet member for Finance, said: “I am delighted that we have moved quickly to launch another grant scheme which will support even more businesses in the town that have been affected by restrictions and the Omicron variant. We have reviewed our Additional Restrictions Grants policies to ensure that those local businesses most in need are prioritised for support under this new scheme.
“Under the Omicron Leisure and Hospitality Grant scheme we have now distributed £196,676 of funding to some 53 businesses who have responded to our communication. With this additional scheme we are doing what we can to support more local businesses who have faced a difficult few months and need financial help.”
