A £250,000 social enterprise accelerator fund launching in Maldon aims to "enhance the economic, social and cultural life" of the district.

Organised by Maldon District Council in partnership with Social Enterprise East of England (SEEE), the new fund will offer grants of up to £50,000 to social enterprises, community-focussed organisations and social entrepreneurs.

Ongoing support and advice will be available from SEEE to participating organisations to allow them to work together in a local social enterprise network.

A spokesperson for the council said: "Our communities have been hit hard during the pandemic, but their resilience has shone through.

"This fund will support the growth of community-focussed enterprise and provide organisations with a catalyst to develop and grow further."

The spokesperson said the grants will "enhance the economic, social and cultural life in the Maldon district", adding: "These activities will develop a resilient social economy for the benefit of residents and local communities."

Debbie Lee, managing director at SEEE, said: "The funding recognises the exciting and innovative way social enterprises have responded to societal challenges caused by the pandemic and comes at a time when the demand for services the sector is providing has never been greater.

"This, together with the support we will be providing not just to those awarded the funding but to other social enterprises in the district, has the potential to really make a difference for local people."

The deadline for applications for grants of up to £5,000 is 28 February, and 15 March for grants between £5,001 and £50,000.

To apply, click here.