The U.S. Department of Transportation’s Maritime Administration (MARAD) has announced $8.75 million in grant awards to 15 small shipyards in 12 states through the Small Shipyard Grant Program.
The funds are to help the shipyards modernise, increase productivity, and expand local job opportunities while competing in the global marketplace.
“Small shipyards are integral to the strength of America’s supply chains and the maritime industry.
“With the grants announced today, The Biden-Harris Administration is delivering funding that will create jobs in cities and towns across the country, strengthen our commercial fleet, and add power to our national economy,” U.S. Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg said.
The U.S. shipbuilding industry significantly contributes to national and economic security, providing over 100,000 jobs and $40 billion in GDP. Since 2008, MARAD’s Small Shipyard Grant Program has awarded $311.7 million in 365 grants to nearly 200 shipyards across 33 states and territories.
“Continued investment in our small shipyards enables them to acquire the cutting-edge technologies needed to remain competitive elements of America’s maritime industry. These grants stimulate economic development by boosting opportunities for good jobs in the communities where shipyards are located,” U.S. Maritime Administrator Ann Phillips said.
The small shipyards that will benefit from the $8.75 million grant are located in Alabama, Florida, Hawaii, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maryland, Mississippi and Oregon. Others are in Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Texas and Washington.
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