Last week the president signed a FY26 federal funding package that included $35 million for the Maritime Administration’s (MARAD) Small Shipyard Grant Program (SSGP)—four times the FY25 funding level.
Support for the Small Shipyard Grant Program has long been a priority for PVA and was a key talking point during the last PVA Congressional Fly-In, where members emphasized the need for stable, robust funding for small and mid-sized U.S. shipyards.
This funding increase also reflects strong support from Congress and the administration with sustained bipartisan support.
Small Shipyard Grant Program grants can be used for capital improvements, equipment purchases, and workforce training, helping shipyards modernize facilities, expand capacity, and invest in their workforce. Several PVA member shipyards have successfully received these grants in past years, using them to move forward projects that otherwise would have been delayed.
Prepare Your Applications Now
Applications are due in 60 days (around April 4), and MARAD is required to publish the grant notice within 15 days (around February 18). Watch this space for updates.
Eligible shipyards should begin preparing now. Sixty days goes by quickly, and the FY25 SSGP grant notice will provide helpful guidance as applicants prepare.