Competition Rules & Awards

Application Requirements 

When submitting your application, you must include the following: 

• Video presentation highlighting your food trailer concept, including:  

• Name 

• Theme, branding and design ideas 

• Type of cuisine/menu 

• Overall vision 

• Development plan outlining whether the project will involve a complete build or the purchase and customization of a trailer 

• Industry partners and collaboration with other CTE programs 

• Sample Menu 

• Budget 

Finalist Presentation Requirements 

The top five finalists will participate in onsite presentations and public sampling. Each presentation should outline the following: 

• Who will be responsible for maintenance 

• Who will be responsible for permits, licenses, and insurance 

• Where the food trailer will be set up 

• How often the food trailer will be used 

• Where the food trailer will be stored and secured 

• How profits will be used 

• What will happen if the food trailer is not successful 

• Local, county, and state laws regarding the operation of a food truck/trailer 

• Laws and limits related to weight and transportation of food trailers 

• Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, Threats (SWOT) analysis 

• Detailed budget plan 

• Marketing strategy 

• Mock exterior design on a 30” x 40” foam board (should resemble the side of a food truck) 

• Present a blueprint of the interior layout 

• Maximum dimensions: 8 ft (W) × 13 ft 6 in (H) × 40 ft (L) 

Additional finalist onsite requirements: 

• Provide 200 samples of one to two menu items  

Grand Prize Winner Requirements 

• The winning program will receive grant funding to support the purchase or build of a food trailer, including customization, equipment, and materials 

• Grant funding is available up to $40,000. Awards will be based on the proposed budget and project needs. 

• The food trailer must meet all applicable laws and regulations 

• Licensing and fees must be supported by the school/county 

• The project must be completed by Friday, May 14, 2027 

If the project is not completed: 

• All remaining funds must be returned to the Department of Education 

• A complete list of purchased materials and equipment must be submitted for redistribution to another program 

Additional Awards 

• A People’s Choice Award will be presented to the program receiving the highest-rated food samples