Food Truck Incubator Program

Application Period Open

The next round of applications will be accepted until March 16 at 2:00 PM. Applications may be dropped off in person at Alvarado City Hall (104 W. College Ave.) or submitted via email to cromerh@cityofalvarado.org.

Food Truck Incubator Program Application

About the Program

The Alvarado Food Truck Incubator Program is a unique opportunity for aspiring chefs, foodies, and entrepreneurs to test and grow their food truck concepts — without the overwhelming upfront investment.

Only one entrepreneur is selected per 6-month cycle to ensure focused support and accountability throughout the program.

Selected Participants Receive:

• Use of a fully equipped, professional-grade food truck

• Guidance toward business training, mentorship, and coaching resources

• Initial launch marketing support to help you get started — including a Meta advertisement, a video introduction, and a Cleburne Times-Review story and/or advertisement — plus opportunities to participate in City events. Ongoing marketing will be the responsibility of the entrepreneur.

• Designated operating opportunities in Downtown Alvarado and the Pecan Orchard

While the City will provide support and help connect participants to valuable resources, selected entrepreneurs are expected to take ownership of their long-term success. Applicants should have a clear and realistic marketing strategy for promoting their concept and growing their customer base.

Application & Review Process

The Alvarado Food Truck Incubator Program follows a structured and competitive selection process designed to ensure fairness, transparency, and alignment with the EDC’s goals.

Step 1: Application Submission
Interested entrepreneurs must submit a completed application, including all required attachments and signatures, no later than 2:00 p.m. on Monday, March 16, 2026. Applications may be delivered in person or submitted via email as outlined above.

Applicants must include:

• A detailed business concept and proposed menu

• An outline of proposed operating days, hours, and locations

• A marketing strategy

• A financial plan, including start-up costs, projected expenses, and proof of working capital

• Any optional supporting materials (photos, mock-ups, testimonials, etc.)

Incomplete applications may not be considered.

Step 2: Initial Review
Applications will be evaluated by staff and the Alvarado EDC Board based on:

• Feasibility and innovation of the concept

• Strength and viability of the business plan

• Financial preparedness

• Commitment to serving the Alvarado community

Step 3: Board Presentation in April 2026 (Finalists Only)
Top applicants will be invited to present their business concept and plan to the Alvarado EDC Board of Directors. This presentation allows applicants to explain their vision, answer questions, and demonstrate their readiness to operate.

Step 4: Background & Eligibility Requirements
The selected applicant must:

• Consent to a background and credit check

• Pass a driving and drug screening

• Provide proof of insurance coverage

• Obtain required food handling certifications

• Provide proof of sufficient working capital to cover operational expenses 

Step 5: Legal Review & Agreement
The City Attorney will review all documents and prepare a formal agreement outlining program terms. The selected entrepreneur must enter into this agreement before beginning operations. The entrepreneur must also have their insurance agency submit proof of coverage before beginning operations.  

Operating Expectations

The selected Food Truck Entrepreneur may operate in Alvarado for the full six-month program period. The City is pleased to host the entrepreneur in Downtown Alvarado (the Square) and at Pecan Orchard on a consistent basis.

At the same time, the Board recognizes that entrepreneurs may need to pursue catering opportunities and events outside city limits to build financial stability and grow their business.

As part of the application process, applicants will be required to submit a proposed weekly operating plan outlining:

• Which days and times they intend to operate within the City of Alvarado (Square and/or Pecan Orchard), and

• Which days they plan to pursue catering opportunities or events outside the City.

The goal is to ensure a visible and reliable presence within Alvarado while allowing flexibility for business growth.