Articles - How to raise money for a food truck (caravan): the best fundraising strategies
9th November 2021

How to raise money for a food truck (caravan): the best fundraising strategies

Starting a food truck or caravan business is a fantastic way to take your culinary passions to the next level without the financial commitment of opening a restaurant. Although it's a much cheaper option, starting a food truck business can still cost tens of thousands of dollars. If you're dreaming of taking your culinary skills on the road but aren't sure how to raise the money for a food truck, this guide can help. Learn about the costs you'll encounter and the best ways to finance your food truck or RV business.

Common food truck (caravan) costs

Like any business investment, food trucks have a wide range of costs. According to the Food Truck Empire website, here are some of the most basic food truck startup costs:

  • The truck itself: $25,000 - $100,000 (new)
  • Initial inventory: $1,000 - $2,000
  • Permits and licenses: $100 - $500
  • Registration: $200 - $1,000


Factoring in all other costs, such as cookware, fuel, and repairs, the total cost of starting a food truck business is about $28,100 in the low end, $114,100 for the high end. This calculation, of course, would probably be significantly lower in value for Bulgaria. Certainly the largest item, namely the food truck/van in Bulgaria, will cost much less, but it will be second hand. Still, it's a very good start because you're never sure if this is your calling. We expect these costs for a food truck/van for Bulgaria to be the same, but in BGN.

Food truck/caravan payment options

Starting a food truck business is similar to starting any type of business - you need time, dedication and, of course, start-up money. So how do you finance a food truck right away? These are the main ways you can get the funds you need to buy a food truck:

Use personal savings for a food truck/van

If you have a solid amount of money in savings, you can use that to outright purchase a new or used food truck or put down a down payment on a truck.

Rent or lease someone else's food truck/van

Renting or leasing a food truck through a site like Road Stoves is a good option if you don't have a lot of money upfront, but it may end up costing you more in the long run.

Try online crowdfunding

Many business owners are turning to online crowdfunding to get their dreams off the ground. Not only is online fundraising a quick and simple way to get financial support, but your fundraising raises awareness for your cause and builds a sense of community around your business.

Get a loan

Some people have no choice but to take out a loan to get the seed money they need for their food truck business. Many loans can have very high interest rates and may not be the best solution for you, depending on your financial situation, so be sure to speak with a financial advisor before going down this path.

5 tips for running a successful food truck/food truck fundraising campaign

1. Have a plan before you start

Just as you'll spend a lot of time putting together a food truck business plan, you'll also want to make sure you've done a little planning before you launch your fundraising campaign and share it with the world.

  • Make a list of all your contacts you want to contact about fundraising. This should include friends, family members and business contacts.
  • Make a donation request letter, email or text message in advance so you can send it as soon as you start fundraising.
  • Not sure how to ask for financial help? Read our blog post on"How to ask for donations".
  • If you already have a presence in the local food scene, be sure to reach out to your contacts to tell them about your upcoming fundraising plans.

2. Tell a compelling story

Your fundraising story is a critical part of your success, so it's a good idea to take some time to put it together and ask for feedback before publishing.

  • Give your fundraising campaign an interesting and eye-catching fundraising headline.
  • Including photos and videos makes your story more engaging and helps others connect more with your cause.
  • Be sure to include financial details that help explain why you want the target amount you've chosen. Donors will want to know exactly how you will use the funds.
  • Tell donors why your food truck dream means so much to you and how the business will shape your future. These are the emotional details that can turn passive readers into active donors.

3. Read crowdfunding best practices

For even more helpful information on conducting a successful online fundraiser, be sure to check out these blog posts:

4. Get your community involved offline

Sometimes online promotion can only go so far. Since your food truck business will depend on real-life community support, it's important to connect with neighbors, community members, and other business owners as much as you can. Use local food truck events as a way to get into the industry or as an opportunity to build relationships with other local food truck owners.

5. Don't forget the fundraising updates

Once you donate, your supporters will want to know how your business is doing, how their donations have made a difference and what plans are on the horizon. Radio silence can discourage future support, while a steady stream of fundraising updates will keep your business top of mind. Don't forget to write a thank you note for a donation after each contribution.

Read What are the requirements to start a campaign on the PavelAndreev.ORG platform?

Check out all the campaigns on PavelAndreev.ORG or start your own.

Fund your dream food truck or caravan today

Starting a new business takes courage and you should be proud of yourself for starting this journey. Start your online fundraising campaign today so your friends, family and community can rally around you and help launch your venture.

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