GoMacro: From Healing to a Health Revolution

GoMacro, the maker of plant-based MacroBars®, began with a personal journey of healing and blossomed into a mission-driven brand now known across the country. Founded in 2004 by mother-daughter duo Amelia Kirchoff and Jola Sonkin, the company traces its roots to a small farmhouse kitchen on a 120-acre farm in Viola, Wisconsin—a place they lovingly named Posilippo, meaning “pause from pain” in Greek.

The name would become more meaningful than they ever imagined. In 2003, Amelia was diagnosed with breast cancer. Determined to heal holistically, she adopted a macrobiotic, plant-based diet, using organic, whole foods to nourish her body alongside a local lumpectomy. During that time, Amelia began experimenting in the kitchen, creating energy bars from simple, natural ingredients. The result was the first MacroBar—a delicious, balanced source of fuel that aligned with her healing journey.

Jola, seeing the impact of these bars and sharing her mother’s passion for wellness, recognized their potential to help others. With her business background and a vision to make plant-based nutrition accessible, she partnered with her mother to launch GoMacro in 2004. What started as a few bars sold in local food co-ops quickly grew into a grassroots success story.

From the very beginning, GoMacro’s mission has been clear: to promote health, sustainability, and compassion through organic, plant-based nutrition. The company’s values are woven into every aspect of the business—from sourcing certified organic, non-GMO ingredients to producing their bars with renewable energy, and supporting nonprofits and community organizations that align with their beliefs.

The farm at Posilippo remains the heart of the company—a place where the family restored orchards, planted gardens, and renovated barns with care. Today, GoMacro’s headquarters still operates from this cherished land, producing every MacroBar with the same love and intention that guided Amelia’s original recipe.

Now a leader in the plant-based protein bar market, GoMacro continues to grow—but has never lost sight of its origins. At its core, GoMacro is still a family business, born from adversity, fueled by purpose, and powered by the belief that food can be a force for good.

VentureMom Tip: Let Purpose Lead the Way