# Michigan Funds Maritime Training and Port Upgrades

Michigan announced $8 million in maritime investments: $3 million in workforce-training grants awarded to five community colleges and a separate $5 million application round for commercial port infrastructure improvements. Applications for port grants are due December 23, 2026, with selections expected within 90 days after the deadline. The funding creates near-term opportunities for port modernization, safety, and capacity projects, alongside potential equipment, lab retrofit, instructor-training, and recruitment work tied to the colleges’ programs.

- The $5 million Michigan Maritime and Port Facility Assistance Grant Program is an open funding opportunity; contractors can review the application and support eligible port applicants on improvement projects.
- Companies serving community colleges may find follow-on opportunities in equipment, lab retrofits, instructor training, and recruitment connected to the $3 million workforce awards.
- **Key deadline:** Port grant applications are due December 23, 2026 (44 days from November 9, 2026); selections are expected within 90 days after the deadline.

**Jurisdictions:** sled
**Industries:** Transportation, Education
**Topics:** Physical Infrastructure, Grants & Funding
**Published:** October 19, 2026

### Government Entities
- State of Michigan
- Michigan Department of Transportation (MDOT)
- Michigan Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity (LEO)
- Michigan Infrastructure Office

### Key Quotes
> While this is one-time funding, we will continue to work with our partners on a long-term, sustainable funding source to build a stronger, more efficient maritime network that supports Michigan’s economy.
> — Bradley C. Wieferich, State Transportation Director

> At the same time, new port infrastructure grants support critical upgrades that enhance capacity, improve safety, and attract business.
> — Gretchen Whitmer, Governor of Michigan

### Sources
- [Gov. Whitmer Accelerates Maritime Economic Growth with $8M in Workforce, Infrastructure Investments, Building on Michigan’s First Ever Maritime Strategy](https://www.michigan.gov/whitmer/news/press-releases/2026/10/19/gov-whitmer-accelerates-maritime-economic-growth) - MI