Dr Rebecca Prescott

An accomplished scholar and practitioner specialising in creative industries entrepreneurship, innovation ecosystems, and spatial policy, Dr Prescott brings together rigorous academic research with practical engagement to advance understanding of how creative organisations and creative communities flourish.

A Fellow of the Higher Education Academy, Dr. Prescott holds a PhD in Business and Management from Northumbria University and an MA in Arts, Business and Creativity from Newcastle University.

Dr. Prescott's research has a particular focus on artist-led initiatives, social innovation, creative and cultural ecosystems, and the development of supportive environments for creative enterprise. Her work examines how creative city policy, community engagement, and sustainable creative practice can be better aligned to strengthen creative economies at both hyperlocal and regional levels. Her expertise includes creative industries consulting, creative business development, and strategies for building resilient, creative communities.

Beyond academia, Dr. Prescott leads collaborative projects funded by major research councils including the Arts and Humanities Research Council (AHRC) and Economic and Social Research Council (ESRC). She works actively with local authorities, creative and cultural organisations and freelancers to co-design research and develop practical solutions for supporting creative economies, cultural development, and creative sector growth. Her work has shaped creative policy and practice across the North East England creative sector and beyond, and she serves as a board member for the Gateshead Riverside Partnership and Dingy Butterflies CIC, a social enterprise in the creative sector. 

Dr. Prescott is a sought-after speaker and thought leader on topics including creative entrepreneurship, creative business innovation, artist-led practice, creative place-making, cultural commissioning, and the future of creative work. She has delivered keynotes and invited lectures at leading institutions including the University of York, Liverpool John Moores University, and the National Trust, and provides creative industries consulting services on creative ecosystem development, cultural commissioning strategies, creative policy development, and support for creative and cultural practitioners.