Small shipyards in the US have been awarded more than $20m in federal grants to provide support for capital and related improvements and training projects.

The grants, provided through the Small Shipyard Grant Program, help eligible shipyards modernize operations, improve efficiency and reap the benefits of increased productivity by investing in emerging technologies and a highly skilled workforce.

“These grants are integral to fostering a highly trained and skilled workforce that are not only essential to the US shipbuilding and repair industry but also to our country’s economy and national security,” said Matthew Paxton, president of the Shipbuilders Council of America.