Food trucks have lower startup costs than brick-and-mortar restaurants but their own distinct capital needs. A built-out food truck runs $80K-$200K depending on equipment package. Annual permits, commissary fees, festival/event entry fees, and seasonal slow periods all create capital flow challenges. Plus the goal for many successful food truck operators is graduation to a brick-and-mortar location — and that requires expansion capital.
Prime Restaurant Capital funds food truck operators across the US. Funding structures include equipment financing for new truck builds, working capital for permit and commissary costs, and expansion capital for trucks moving to brick-and-mortar. Operating food trucks generating $20K+/month qualify.
Food Truck Funding Use Cases
New Truck Build or Purchase
A purpose-built food truck typically costs $80K-$200K. This includes the truck itself, kitchen build-out (range, fryer, refrigeration, prep area), generator/power systems, plumbing/water systems, and ventilation. Custom builds for specialty concepts run higher. Equipment financing structures these costs over 36-60 months.
Equipment Upgrades and Expansion
Existing trucks expand revenue capacity by adding equipment: additional fryers for higher throughput, espresso/coffee setup for adding breakfast service, larger refrigeration for catering capabilities, exterior signage and wraps for brand visibility.
Second Truck
Successful food truck operators expand by adding trucks. Each new truck adds capacity to cover more events simultaneously, reach more locations, and double catering capacity. Second-truck financing often combines equipment loan + working capital for operations.
Brick-and-Mortar Graduation
The end-game for many successful food truck operators: convert proven concept into a sit-down restaurant. Capital requirements jump significantly — $250K-$500K for a small brick-and-mortar build versus $100K for a truck. Expansion capital funds this transition.
Food Truck Funding Qualifications
- Operating food truck in the US — minimum 6 months
- Monthly revenue $10K+ (most food trucks we fund do $15K-$60K monthly)
- Active food vendor permits in operating jurisdictions
- Credit score 500+ accepted
