Two of the town’s organisations which help job seekers and new businesses were given a £21,000 boost.

Signpost Colchester, which offers advice to people looking for work, and the Colchester Business Enterprise Agency were awarded funding from Colchester Council’s Enterprise Grant 2014.

Bob Baggalley, of the Colchester Business Enterprise Agency, said: “With this funding we can continue to provide our one to one Business Advice to new start businesses in the locality.

“This service continues to be very popular and we are very pleased the Council is so committed to supporting Colchester’s local businesses.”

The aim of the grant is to increase properity in the borough by helping residents learn new skills.

Councillor Paul Smith, cabinet member for business and resources said: “I’m delighted to award this grant funding to two local organisations.

“Even in tough economic times there are opportunities out there and we’re backing those who have the ideas and can-do attitude to help people get back into work or start up their own business.”

There will be a second opportunity to bid for a share of the remaining £21,500 in the Enterprise Grant 2014 later this year.