This last TechEd I went to a session on getting work as an independent consultant and ever since then I have been really focused on optimizing not only my own searching but that of other consultants. A couple more things I would like to mention:

1. If you have no problem getting certified for a security clearence, the government is hiring right now. People at the session really pushed the fact that the government is really looking into independent consulting at the moment (for one reason or another), and that it might be a good opportunity for independent developers.
2. Charity is, suprisingly, a good option. Even though you may not make a lot of money (or any) helping out a charity, charities have benefactors - people that donate money - and your good deeds go noticed. Benefactors do have money; doing a good job for something a rich person cares about might have its benefits.
3. Staffing agencies are there to help. Staffing agencies like this one: http://www.teksystems.com/Services/Staffing-Services/Default.aspx are there to link up parties. These people, obviously, take their cut, but it's a great way to get started. Remember - beggars can't be choosers.

...just a few more things to think about.