How Can I Start a Food Truck Business?

If you’re thinking about getting into the food truck business, start with a simple business plan that covers these things:

  • Why do you want to start a food truck? 

  • What will having a “successful” food truck look like for you? 

  • Who will you be selling food to? 

  • What type of food will you sell?

  • How will you set prices?

  • Where will you buy your supplies?

  • How will you promote your business?

  • Will I need permits or a license?

Other questions to think about before starting a food truck business:

  • What will make your food truck stand out? In business, this is called your “unique selling proposition or USP.” Maybe the kind of food you sell is what sets you apart from other food trucks. The way you style and decorate your truck can also be something that makes your food truck unique. Start by brainstorming ideas. To get started, ask yourself questions. For example, are there food items that people like that aren’t available from food trucks in your area? Write your ideas down so you can review them later. 

  • How well do you know the business? Learn about the food truck business before you get started. Are there already food trucks offering the same kind of food you want to serve? Check out the food truck competition in your area and Mobile Food News and the National Food Truck Association to learn more.

  • What do I need to know about health inspections? There are health inspection codes just for food trucks. The codes will depend on your business and location, so you’ll need to check with your local department of health to get a complete list of rules. Usually, there will be a scheduled inspection before you can start selling food. An annual health inspection is required in most places, but there may also be random inspections.

What can help me be 5 X more successful?

Working with a mentor can make you 5 times more likely to succeed! Entrepreneurs who work with a mentor can help you get started and help you grow. They have experience in business and can help connect you with information and contacts and avoid obstacles. Best of all, a mentor believes in you and your dream and will listen to any ideas or concerns you have. 

Entrepreneurs with mentors are 5X more likely to launch, grow, and stay in business.

As a member, you’ll get:

One-on-one Mentorship

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You’ll get to meet with volunteer mentors from our network of thousands of area experts in the US and across the globe.

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Tools & Resources

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Not sure where to start with your business? Our step-by-step guides will help break down important business milestones into manageable steps you can work on with a volunteer.

Funding Opportunities

Funding Opportunities

We offer monthly micro-grant opportunities through our Friends & Family Fund, plus exclusive invitation to pitch for larger grants throughout the year.

Friends and Family Fund

Friends and Family Fund

Each month, our members vote for at least one Sky’s the Limit entrepreneur to receive a $2,500 startup grant. We’ve given over $100,000 in grants so far and plan to fund millions more.

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Do I qualify for the program? 

If you have a business or business idea, are between the ages of 18-29, and from a group that is statistically underrepresented in traditional entrepreneurship, you likely qualify for full membership. Entrepreneur FAQ.

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As a member of Skysthelimit.org, you’ll be able to message, meet, and collaborate with other members to work on projects and complete important business milestones.

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