Extend and re-use existing portlet projects
Consider adapting or re-packaging a portlet created by someone else.
Before creating a new portlet check if anyone else is working on a similar project. The JA-SIG portlet adopters email list would be a fine place to discuss your portlet idea. Also, check the Internet for portlets that might serve as a suitable starting point for your project.
Create a new portlet project
Create a child page under the home page for this space for your portlet. Copy the steps from an existing portlet project for birthing your project, and then nag someone like Unlicensed user to make progress on bootstrapping that infrastructure.