HAWKs (Hiking Adventures With Kids), the nature-based children’s enrichment brand reconnecting kids with the outdoors, announced today a strategic investment from Post Investment Group to support its nationwide franchise expansion. The brand is thoughtfully opening franchise territories across the U.S., prioritizing mission-aligned operators and regions where families are seeking meaningful, screen-free enrichment options.
Founded in Los Angeles in 2022 by Emma Flanders and Martha E. Flores, HAWKs was created in response to a growing disconnect between children and time spent outdoors. HAWKs offers immersive, screen-free experiences that build confidence, curiosity and real world skills through exploration and play. Through year round after-school programs, day camps and weekend adventures, children spend their days hiking local trails, discovering nearby wild spaces and building strong connections with one another and the natural world.
“HAWKs was born from equal parts frustration and conviction,” said Emma Flanders, Co-Founder and CEO of HAWKs. “As a working mom, I struggled to find programs that allowed kids to move freely, think independently and experience nature in a meaningful way. With this partnership, we now have the infrastructure and expertise to bring this experience to families nationwide.”
The partnership brings together HAWKs’ proven outdoor enrichment model with Post Investment Group’s experience scaling franchise systems that prioritize franchisee support and long term success. Post Investment Group’s franchise leadership team has built and expanded national franchise brands including The NOW Massage and Sky Zone, providing deep expertise in franchising infrastructure, operational support and sustainable growth.
“Growth only matters if it protects the heart of what we do,” said Flanders. “We look for franchise partners who believe kids learn best through exploration and who care deeply about the communities they serve.”