The U.S. Transportation Secretary Sean P. Duffy has announced that the Maritime Administration (MARAD) awarded $8.75 million in grants to revitalise US shipyards and advance America’s maritime dominance.
The funding is part of the Small Shipyard Grant programme, which supports advanced training, workforce development, and new technologies that strengthen US shipbuilding and repair capabilities.
The programme has selected 17 recipients across 12 states to modernise infrastructure, enhance training, and expand apprenticeship programmes.
Since its inception in 2008, the Small Shipyard Grant programme has awarded 382 grants totalling $320.5 million to qualified small shipyard facilities.
America’s small shipyards are a strategic asset and are critical to national security and economic vitality. Employing more than 100,000 Americans, these shipyards are fundamental engines of local job growth and have unique capabilities, from custom vessel development to specialised repair services.
Through President Trump’s Executive Order on restoring America’s maritime dominance, shipyards are positioned to enhance defence, grow manufacturing, and expand innovation and the maritime workforce.
“President Trump’s plan to reclaim maritime dominance starts with rebuilding America’s shipyards,” said U.S. Transportation Secretary Sean P. Duffy.
“This programme will help America to build big, beautiful ships again to counter Chinese competition and maintain freedom on the seas.”
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“Unleashing the full power of America’s shipyards will boost our economic strength and national security,” said Acting Maritime Administrator Sang Yi.
“The Small Shipyard Grant programme is revitalising America’s maritime industry by investing in businesses that spur innovation, improve productivity, and fuel job creation in communities around the country.”
Earlier this year, the EU granted €7.8 million ($8.1 million) to the STEESMAT project, which aims to develop power distribution systems for future zero-emission ships.
