Gulf Marine Repair Corp. in Tampa will receive $1.01 million in federal funding for improvements to three berths in its south slip, new wheel loaders and equipment for its training center.
The U.S. Maritime Administration awarded Gulf Marine $1,007,678 through its Small Shipyard Grant Program, which is distributing $35.1 million among 45 shipyards in 24 states and the U.S. Virgin Islands this year.
Federal funding for the program increased 300% in 2026 as the Trump administration directs more money toward domestic maritime infrastructure, shipbuilding and workforce development. The grants support capital improvements and employee training at smaller U.S. shipyards.
“Small shipyards across America were once the backbone of our nation’s maritime industry,” U.S. Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy said. He said the expanded program will pay for equipment, facility improvements and training for maritime workers.
The Department of Transportation did not disclose the total cost of Gulf Marine’s Tampa project, how much the company will contribute or when the berth improvements and equipment purchases will be completed.