How do I plan for my PhD now that I have graduated with a Masters degree without thesis?
Probably the most important thing what you can do to make some doors open is to write a peer-reviewed research paper. 

If you have any chances, find someone in academia, try to structure your interest and do some bit of research which you can publish under the academic. 

Form another point, I know there are some Universities, which value "business" contacts and experience. Don't give up and apply, apply, apply...