I’m a firm believer in the power of community. Joining forces with others who share your passion and challenges can not only keep you grounded but also open doors to opportunities you couldn’t achieve on your own.
Florida’s food truck scene is one of the most vibrant in the nation, with cities like Miami, Tampa, and Orlando leading the charge. As the industry grows, so does the need for support systems. Food truck associations have become vital lifelines for mobile vendors, advocating for fair regulations, fostering collaboration, and creating event opportunities that amplify visibility and revenue. These groups are more than just networks. They’re catalysts for success in an increasingly competitive market.
At M&R Trailers and Trucks, we’re not just building trucks; we’re helping entrepreneurs build their dreams. That’s why I’ve compiled this updated list of active food truck associations in Florida for 2025. Whether you’re a seasoned operator or just starting out, joining one of these groups can provide the resources, mentorship, and opportunities you need to thrive.
M Shack concession trailer. Built by M&R Specialty Trailers and Trucks.
Active Food Truck Associations in Florida for 2025
Gulf to Bay Food Truck Association
Serving the Tampa Bay area, including Tampa and St. Petersburg, the Gulf to Bay Food Truck Association is a nonprofit dedicated to uniting food truck owners and strengthening their collective voice. This group provides mentorship for new vendors, helping them navigate the complexities of permits, regulations, and operations. They’ve established a code of conduct to ensure professionalism and foster a positive reputation for food trucks in the region. Beyond advocacy, Gulf to Bay connects members with catering opportunities and community events, amplifying their reach. Their commitment to community development makes them a cornerstone of the Tampa Bay food truck scene. Learn more here.
Jacksonville Food Trucks represents a coalition of small businesses operating premium food and beverage trucks across Jacksonville and Northeast Florida. This association is driven by a mission to innovate hospitality, deliver high-quality food, and contribute to community development. They work to reinvent food truck vending in ways that benefit entrepreneurs, patrons, and the city itself. By offering resources like marketing support and event coordination, they help members stand out in a crowded market. For food truck owners in the Jacksonville area, this group is a must-join for its focus on collaboration and growth. Visit their site.
What began as a modest gathering of nine food trucks has blossomed into a major player in Tampa Bay’s food truck ecosystem. The Tampa Bay Food Truck Rally now organizes multiple events and rallies throughout the year, providing members with high-visibility opportunities to showcase their menus. Beyond events, they offer consultation services, including marketing strategies to help trucks build their brands. Their focus on fostering local business makes them an invaluable resource for food truck owners looking to expand their reach in the Tampa Bay area. Check them out.
South Florida Food Truck Association
Covering Dade, Broward, Palm Beach, and Martin Counties, the South Florida Food Truck Association is a powerhouse in one of Florida’s most active food truck regions. Founded by food truck owners for food truck owners, this group has been advocating for its nearly 180 members since 2014. They work to secure better regulations, negotiate group discounts on resources, and partner with local municipalities to create event opportunities. Their efforts have helped expand food truck locations and foster partnerships with other businesses, making them a vital ally for vendors from Miami to Stuart. Explore their work.
Tallahassee Food Truck Association
Operating in the Big Bend region of Northern Florida, the Tallahassee Food Truck Association (TFTA) has been a key supporter of mobile food vendors since 2011. The TFTA focuses on promoting the growth of food trucks in Leon County and beyond, providing members with access to events and resources to enhance their businesses. They also engage with the public to raise awareness about the value of food trucks, advocating for policies that support the industry. For food truck operators in Northern Florida, the TFTA is a welcoming community with a strong commitment to advancement. Find out more.
Build community by joining your local food truck association.
Event Coordinators and Food Truck Resources
While the groups below may not function as traditional associations with memberships, they play a critical role in Florida’s food truck ecosystem by organizing events, rallies, and festivals. As someone who’s built countless trucks for vendors, I can attest that partnering with these organizations can significantly boost your visibility and customer base. They keep lists of active food trucks and connect vendors with event opportunities, making them worth contacting if you operate in their area.
Based in South Florida, the Gourmet Food Truck Expo specializes in producing and promoting food truck events across Broward, Miami, Palm Beach, Fort Lauderdale, and Boca Raton. They cater to both private and corporate functions, offering food truck operators a platform to reach diverse audiences. Their events are well-attended, providing vendors with a chance to showcase their menus and build their brands. If you’re operating in South Florida, reaching out to this group could open doors to lucrative catering gigs. Learn more.
Food Trucks Fort Lauderdale is a go-to resource for food truck events in Fort Lauderdale, Boca Raton, and Delray Beach. Their mission is to spread the word about truck gatherings and provide a booking platform for customers seeking food trucks for events. They maintain an active calendar of family-friendly events, green markets, and night markets, making it easy for vendors to connect with opportunities. For food truck owners in these areas, this group is an excellent way to stay in the loop and secure event spots. Visit their site.
Florida Food Trucks serves as a statewide resource, helping food truck operators find festivals, book catering gigs, and connect with customers. While not a formal association, their platform is a hub for discovering food truck events across Florida, from Hialeah to Pensacola. They maintain an event calendar for 2025, featuring festivals in cities like Merritt Island, Winter Haven, and Tampa. For vendors looking to expand their reach, this group offers a valuable way to stay informed and get involved. Check their calendar.
A food truck association can help connect you with profitable local events.
Why Joining a Food Truck Association Matters
From my experience at M&R Trailers and Trucks, I’ve seen how food truck associations can make or break a new business. These groups provide more than just networking… they offer advocacy, education, and access to events that can elevate help your food truck get started in the early days of the business.
In a state like Florida, where the food truck market is expected to grow at a 6.4% annual rate through 2030, competition is fierce. Associations help level the playing field by securing favorable regulations, negotiating group discounts, and creating high-traffic events that draw crowds.
For new food truck owners, the mentorship and resources offered by these groups are invaluable. They can guide you through the maze of permits, health inspections, and local ordinances—tasks that can be daunting without support. For seasoned operators, associations provide a platform to collaborate, innovate, and expand into new markets. Whether it’s through the Gulf to Bay Food Truck Association’s mentorship programs or the South Florida Food Truck Association’s advocacy efforts, these groups empower vendors to succeed.
Note that most associations charge a modest membership fee. But the benefits ranging from advocacy to event access are well worth the price of admission.
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