Definitely speak up. Sponsors always have people who "want to be an apprentice" but very few stand up and actually do it, so you'll need to prove your dedication to be seriously considered as a candidate. Luckily for me, chance lead me to my sponsor at a time when I finally had the time, money, and space to begin an apprenticeship. I received my permit yesterday so I am not too awful far ahead of where you're at. But definitely speak up and be heard and make it plain that you are seriously interested and willing to start such an ordeal.