>My close friend and I would like to start a consulting business here in Dallas, Tx (we know it's a highly competitive area) and I would like to hear some advise from some of you.

Andy,

Check out these two web sites:

www.iXmatch.com
www.SkillsVillage.com

Both sites are geared towards matching independant contractors with freelance projects. Now is the time to do it, good luck!

Kind Regards,

Mat