Its called a media barter. You participate and work your buts off to get there name out, in exchange they help you with gear or whatever else they offer. You will put them on websites, tshirts, banners at events.. ect.
How to find one...
The following doesn't work so well, but its a start... send email blasts and call every company you can find... sunglasses, sunscreen, boat co., board co., water, redbull... the list goes on.
Boat companies(expecially dealerships) are hard to deal with in my experience, they are not in the business of losing money or giving handouts.
UNT recieves funds by working directly with sponsors at events, on campus, boat shows and tournaments. Have your team hold a tournament if you want to make some real $$. Its work, but it pays big and your team will get exposure. talk to me if you want to do this.
Finally...
My best advise is to find a sponsor that WANTS to work with you! Once you find that your golden.
Talk to your team and have them help you find solutions, you will have to work together.
my email is
randy_zorn@yahoo.com if you want to chat.