Copyright 1993 Associated Newspapers Ltd. February 1, 1993, Monday SECTION: Pg. 31 LENGTH: 507 words 

HEADLINE: NEW BUSINESS STARTS IN THE BED;

ENTERPRISE MONEY MAIL

A SUCCESSFUL small business is helping others of similar size to keep upwith the latest company information. 

Instant Search was started by Anthony Capstick in the bedroom of his home inWhalley, Lancs. Mr Capstick, 34, is a former computer systems editor with the FinancialTimes. While he worked for the paper it occurred to him that the databasesroutinely accessed by newspapers could also provide information for small firms. 

In March 1991 he quit his job and set up his own link, using computerequipment which cost less than £2,000. It is linked to Companies House, corporate credit rating agencies, and now,through a deal with Manchester Business School, marketing data and generalcorporate intelligence. 

Instant Search now employs two people and uses homeworkers when required. Turnover this year is expected to be more than £100,000. It offers information on a one-off basis, which makes it a better deal forsmall firms that do not want to subscribe to entire databases and also do notwant the cost of computer equipment and modems. 

Mr Capstick says that many clients use the service just once or twice ayear. Instant Search has software - claimed to be unique - which turns itscustomers' fax machines into remote printers. You pay by credit card for the information and the minimum charge is £14,rising to £30 for a full Infocheck Report.