If you have any colleges or universities in your area, contact an economics professor and volunteer to straighten up all of the books and papers he/she has stacked on the floors and the desks. If they teach economics, I'll guarantee you, they're there. :-)
Economists are always doing some kind of research. They may have surveys or polls you can help with.
If that doesn't work for you, just contact local businesses and explain what you're trying to do.