"The main difference is CEF's personal approach. I never felt like a number. Instead, I developed direct relationships their advisors, who supported me throughout the entire journey. They have continued to assist me during my startup phase, providing numerous resources to help ensure my success."
– John Moody, Owner

Q&A with Owner, John Moody

Give a high level overview of your business. What products or services you offer, where you're located, etc.
At Water Bridge Aquamation, our mission is to provide pet owners with a compassionate and eco-friendly aftercare solution through the utilization of aquamation, a sustainable alternative to traditional flame-based cremation. With a commitment to reducing our ecological footprint and providing exceptional service to families during times of loss, we are here to help preserve the memory of your cherished pet while caring for our planet. In addition to aquamation services, we provide a range of memorial keepsakes including bamboo and biodegradable urns, custom glass pieces incorporating your pet's aquamated remains, clay paw impressions, ink nose prints, and fur clippings. Also, we have registered the effluent, the water byproduct from the aquamation process, as an all-natural fertilizer with Colorado's Department of Agriculture. Our fertilizer, Earth Glow, will be donated to local cemeteries, wildlife refuges, tree farms, and nurseries. Pet families can also request some if they choose. Water Bridge Aquamation is located in a 101-year-old home at 2364 S. Broadway, Denver, CO 80210.

How did the idea for your business come about?
Water Bridge Aquamation stems from my 14 year background as a mortician/funeral home manager.I've been excited to see the aquamation offered for humans,but it hasn't been available for pets.Pet families deserve greener and more gentle options for their beloved pets, who are often considered as family.

What neighborhood is your business located in and what do you love about that location?
Water Bridge Aquamation is situated in Denver's Rosedale neighborhood, a location we really enjoy. Just a block away from Harvard Gulch, our central position makes us easily accessible from all parts of the Denver Metro area.

How did your journey lead you to Colorado Enterprise Fund?
My journey brought me to CEF through recommendations from numerous advisors within the city and various businesses.

How did you find out about CEF?
I learned about CEF through recommendations from numerous advisors within the city and various businesses.

What was different about working with CEF compared to other lenders?
The main difference is CEF's personal approach. I never felt like a number. Instead, I developed direct relationships their advisors, who supported me throughout the entire journey. They have continued to assist me during my startup phase, providing numerous resources to help ensure my success.

What were you able to do with the funding you received from CEF?
Thanks to the funding from CEF, I was able to purchase a state-of-the-art pet aquamation unit. This unit allows us to perform eco-friendly, water-based cremation for pets, offering a greener, more compassionate aftercare solution.

What is a recent success your small business would like to share?
We were excited to welcome everyone for our ribbon-cutting ceremony on Friday, June 28th, and explore our facility, see our state-of-the-art aquamation unit, and learn more about the benefits of eco-friendly water cremation for pets.

Have you worked with our Business Navigation (coaching) team?
Yes

What difference has working with them made for your business?
Working with the Business Navigation team has been extremly beneficial for making financial, marketing, and business relationship decisions. They have consistently been available to address my needs, offering invaluable insight and advice. I am especially grateful for Kristin McCarty's support!

What is something you're looking forward to in the next 3-6 months in your business?
In the next 3-6 months, we'll focus on building strong relationships with pet owners and the community, expanding our reach through events and partnerships with local vets and shelters.