The U.S. Department of Transportation’s Maritime Administration (MARAD) will invest $35.1 million in small shipyards across the country, U.S. Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy said.
The investment represents a 300 percent increase in funding for 2026. Investments at 45 shipyards across 24 states and the U.S. Virgin Islands will focus on infrastructure and workforce development, officials said.
“Small shipyards across America were once the backbone of our nation’s maritime industry. President Trump is reviving this critical sector so America can finally rekindle its proud history of building the vessels that keep America’s economy moving. The 300 increase in this program will fund cutting-edge equipment, major facility upgrades, and new training programs for the next generation of maritime workers,” Duffy said.
Among the projects receiving funding are $1 million in Tampa, FL to Gulf Marine Repair Corporation for training center equipment, wheel loaders and upgrades to three berths in its south slip; $1 million in Mamaroneck, NY, to Robert E. Derecktor, Inc., for an offshore marine crane, and more than $990 in Hebron, KY to Carlisle & Bray Hebron Shipyard for a floating drydock.
“America’s small shipyards drive our maritime economy and strengthen our national readiness,” MARAD Administrator Stephen M. Carmel said. “Across the nation, shipyard workers bring the skill, innovation, and technical expertise that build, repair, and launch the vessels America depends on. These investments support the Maritime Action Plan and will strengthen America’s maritime future for years to come.”