U.S. Department of Transportation's Maritime Administration recently announced $19.6 million in grants to 24 small shipyards in 19 states to help modernize.
The funds from MARAD's Small Shipyard Grant Program are aimed at modernization, increasing productivity and expanding local employment opportunities, DOT said in a July 21 news release.
"Small businesses are the lifeblood of the American economy, and small shipyards play a critical role in America's maritime industry, helping us get the goods we depend on every day," Buttigieg said in the news release. "These grants will help modernize small shipyards in communities across the country, creating and protecting local jobs, strengthening America’s maritime industry and securing our economic future."
MARAD's Small Shipyard Grant Program has awarded more than $282 million to almost 300 shipyards in 32 states and territories throughout the U.S. since 2008.
"These grants will allow small businesses to do what they do best, which is to build essential infrastructure while creating long-term and well-paying jobs for Americans," Maritime Administrator Ann Phillips said in the release. "Better equipment means increased productivity and more ships and watercraft moving through our small shipyards. Growing this industry further supports and strengthens our domestic maritime industry."
Anyone who would like more information may visit the Small Shipyards Grants webpage.
