The US Department of Transportation announced on July 21 that the Maritime Administration (MARAD) will award $8.75 million in grants to 17 small shipyards across 12 states through the Small Shipyard Grant Program. Transportation Secretary Sean P. Duffy emphasized that revitalizing shipyards is central to President Trump’s agenda to restore US maritime strength and counter China’s growing influence. The program supports infrastructure upgrades, training, and apprenticeships, aiming to bolster innovation, job creation, and national defence. Since its inception in 2008, the program has distributed 382 grants totalling $320.5 million.
