The US Maritime Administration (MARAD) is providing $35.1 million to support infrastructure and workforce development at 45 small shipyards across 24 states and the US Virgin Islands.
The funding follows an executive order aimed at strengthening the US maritime sector and represents a 300 per cent increase in programme funding for 2026.
Among the recipients, Gulf Marine Repair Corporation in Tampa, Florida, received $1.01 million for training centre equipment, wheel loaders and upgrades to three berths in its south slip.
Robert E. Derecktor in Mamaroneck, New York, was awarded $1 million for an offshore marine crane, while Carlisle and Bray Hebron Shipyard in Hebron, Kentucky, secured $991,565 for a floating drydock.
Signet Maritime Corporation in Pascagoula, Mississippi, received $387,745 for equipment including a plasma cutting table, welding tractors, a crane and a vertical tilt-frame bandsaw.
Safe Boats International in Bremerton, Washington, was awarded $321,474 for 17 welding machines to support its welding and fabrication training programme.
Transportation Secretary Sean P. Duffy said the funding would support equipment purchases, facility upgrades and training programmes for maritime workers.
MARAD Administrator Stephen M. Carmel said small shipyards contribute to the maritime economy and that the investments support the maritime action plan and US national readiness.