MarAd makes $9.8m in funding available for small shipyards

The U.S. Transportation Department’s Maritime Administration said the funding will support capital improvements and employee training at small shipyards across the country.    The U.S. Transportation Department’s Maritime Administration on Friday said it has $9.8 million in federal funding to support capital improvements and employee training for the country’s small shipyards.
   The grants, provided through the Small Shipyard Grant Program, help eligible shipyards modernize operations and improve efficiency, the agency said.
   MarAd noted that in 2013 U.S. shipbuilders employed 110,000 workers and produced $37.3 billion in gross domestic product.
   Applications for the grants are due to MarAd by July 5, with an award date of no later than Sept. 5. More details are available on the MarAd website, and those interested in applying for funds can contact David M. Heller, director of MarAd’s Office of Shipyards and Marine Engineering, by email at David.Heller@dot.gov.