Does anyone have advice about securing projects related to the economic stimulus? What's the best place to find out what projects are being awarded to small businesses? Is it a state-by-state thing?

This may be best achieved on a state by state basis. Most states have a registration process where small businesses can sign up and be notified of government contracts that fall within the services that the small business selects. For more information about stimulus money I would contact your local PTAC - Procurement Technical Assistance Centers which specializes in providing:
* An understanding of the requirements of government contracting, and
* the know-how to obtain and perform federal, state, and local government contracts