By networking. Even smaller towns nowadays have specific community events that are worth attending just for the networking part. If you can't find one about data science or AI, try going to the local Web development meetup and, for example, connect with people who need or are passionate about data visualizations.

You can also reach out to businesses directly by cold contacting, if you can't get a warm introduction. You'll get used to hearing no a lot, but that's a valuable experience in and of itself.