In today’s economy, businesses and business-minded folks are looking for all the help and advice they can get.

That’s why programs such as the one being offered June 14 in Troy are so beneficial.

On that day, the Alabama Department of Revenue will host a free New Business Workshop. The workshop begins at 5:30 p.m. at the Pike County Economic Development Corporation, located at 100 Industrial Blvd., and is open to individuals who are considering opening a new business or who simply have tax questions.

The workshop will cover a variety of state tax information topics, including employer withholding taxes, state and local sales taxes, property taxes, business licensing requirements and Alabama’s child labor law.

The program also includes an overview of Alabama’s business tax electronic filing programs, an important component for any business.

Entrepreneurism is alive and well in America and Alabama these days. Entrepreneurship has been one of the brightest spots in our economy during the past three years, as a new generation of Americans seek to carve their paths and make a mark on the world.

In 2010, for instance, 565,000 new businesses were created, that’s the most in 15 years. Whether by choice or necessity, Americans and Alabamians are turning to their own merits and ideas as they find ways to navigate the changing world economy.

We urge anyone who has an interest in starting his or her own business to take advantage of the free seminar and information provided by the Department of Revenue and Pike County Economic Development Corp.

Anyone wanting more information can visit the department’s Web site at www.revenue.alabama.gov or call (334) 242-2677.