Don't mind those people telling you off.
The easiest way to pick up a sponsor, is by starting at local reps. But before you can approach a local rep, you need some kind of substance to get them to give you some gear. The easiest and most fun way is by making a video of yourself. Even if it is done by 2 vcr's and a cd player for the tunes, its still fun to do. If that is out of the question, then the next easiest way to attract local reps is by winning or placing well in local events. All the big air comps, halfpipe comps, slopestyle comps, etc. The problem is that comps are usually another story in itself, and often you are not justified in them by judges. Regarless, there is something to be said about someone who can hit every comp and win. Of course good comp results and a video to boot is the best way to show off to local reps.
Once you've got yourself some decent placings in comps and hopefully a video or some photos at least, then you can go to the local rep (ask your store for names, numbers) or see if you can meet them in person. Often a local rep will be at local comps to promote their product, and this is the best way to get in touch with them. Anyways, talk with the reps and see if any of them can give you some gear. Often this isn't very difficult to get. Voila, local sponsorship. At this point you gotta keep on working hard to get better and better and do well at the comps (again, you dont HAVE to do comps, but its certainly an easy showcase of your real skill) and then if you warrant the opportunity it is not hard to move up in the sponsorship ranks of a company through the contacts your local rep has.
Just work real hard, and sell yourself. You dont NEED this or that, but those are just solid items that can shoe you into a company.
Good luck !
- G