[EricH]

You're looking for mentors, which is a good start. I'll echo Dave Brinza's call to talk to the local veteran teams to find a mentor team. Matter of fact, make plans to compete in Cal Games. I'm fairly certain there are some practice robots in the Bay Area that just might be available, and pre-rookies often get big discounts to off-season events.

As for actually getting mentors, ask around. Parents may know some people who can help with the technical and non-technical stuff. Also note that parents can do a lot to help the team out, such as assist with fundraisers and bring in food on occasion.

As for sponsors, anything that you can get that will help you is fair game. Facilities, mentors, machine shops that can make key components, restaurants that can do a "robotics night" or provide discounts, contributors to drawings or fundraisers, matching donations, the list goes on. Make sure to thank them--have their names/logos displayed on your robot and/or your shirts.

Oh, and one more thing: Get your school on board if you can (and if you haven't already). The better the relationship with your school, the happier you'll be in the long run. What you're looking for from them is recognition as an official activity and the ability to be under their umbrella--funding from them isn't a realistic goal at this time.