I would suggest the following: Spend $25 or whatever it costs in your target region to post an ad on craigslist. This ad should say that you're a small startup

I would suggest the following: Spend $25 or whatever it costs in your target region to post an ad on craigslist. This ad should say that you're a small startup, etc. Telecommuting should be ok. Describe the kind of designer you're looking for as well as the work that they'll be doing. You can say that it's an unpaid internship, assuming you're incorporated in some way, and have them work up to the maximum number of months allowed by your state's laws. If you're not incorporated in any way and prefer a designer for a longer period of time consider offering them equity in return for their work. If you post the above ad properly you should receive hundred of applications many from talented designers, many of whom are recent graduates, or traditional designers seeking to switch to the web. Most of all they're looking for real world experience and this opportunity should provide them with that. The only drawback is that it will require a bit of effort on your part to let them know what they're doing right, and what they're doing wrong. When they're doing something wrong try to point them to examples or resources that can help them learn. You'll be getting a designer, while they'll be getting invaluable experience.