Nesta

Nesta is the UK's innovation foundation, an independent charity that works to help people and communities thrive in a rapidly changing world. With roots in the National Endowment for Science, Technology and the Arts, Nesta has evolved into one of the most influential innovation organisations in Europe. The foundation operates across several interconnected mission areas, including healthy life, a fairer start, and a sustainable future, all of which intersect significantly with urban policy and technology. Nesta's work in cities spans data-driven public service design, civic technology, evidence-based policy innovation, and the application of artificial intelligence to urban challenges. Through its investment arm, Nesta Impact Investments, it has backed numerous startups working on urban sustainability, health technology, and education innovation. Nesta also runs significant programmes focused on collective intelligence, participatory democracy, and the responsible use of data and AI in public services, making it a cornerstone of the UK's urban innovation ecosystem.