About Nesta

Nesta is an innovation foundation. For us, innovation means turning bold ideas into reality and changing lives for the better. We use our expertise, skills and funding in areas where there are big challenges facing society.

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Jessica Edwards

Head of Cultural Development, Arts Practice

Jessica has joined Nesta’s Arts practice to support the development of innovation projects and partnerships within the sustainable future mission.

She is deeply curious about the change-catalysing properties of culture and storytelling, recently completing a Clore Fellowship in cultural leadership.

Jessica has expertise bridging the worlds of television, documentary film and non-profits. She was the Director of Impact & Partnerships at Doc Society for 5.5 years, initiating, growing and leading many of the organisation’s key partnerships and projects. There she helped establish the Climate Story Fund, enabling a slate of 25 storytelling projects from around the world to maximise their creative and impact potential.

The first 15 years of her career were spent producing documentaries and factual television. She has also worked in strategic communications, leading projects for prominent NGOs. Her practice now integrates this breadth of experience, embracing opportunities to optimise the powers of arts & culture.