Jonathan Nazeer

Jonathan Nazeer is a dedicated leader in community economic development, capacity building, and cooperative business models. As the Capacity Building Program Director for the South Carolina Association for Community Economic Development (SCACED), Jonathan works to empower nonprofit organizations, Community Development Corporations (CDCs), Community Development Financial Institutions (CDFIs), and Microbusiness Enterprises with the knowledge, resources, and strategies needed to create sustainable economic change.

With a deep commitment to Community Wealth Building (CWB), Jonathan integrates economic and power capacity building into SCACED's programs, ensuring that historically marginalized communities have access to capital, technical assistance, and equitable economic opportunities. He leads SCACED’s three-tiered training model, providing specialized guidance on certification/recertification, economic development strategies, and community power-building initiatives.

Jonathan’s expertise spans urban agriculture, small business development, workforce training, and cooperative enterprise structures. His work at SCACED aligns with his broader mission of transforming low-wealth communities through innovative, inclusive economic strategies.

Beyond SCACED, Jonathan is a social entrepreneur and advocate for sustainable development, serving as the founder of Innovation Gardens, LLC and co-founder of Victory Gardens International (VGI). Through these initiatives, he champions food justice, urban farming, and workforce development, bridging the gap between economic empowerment and community resilience.

A dynamic speaker and consultant, Jonathan is passionate about equipping organizations, policymakers, and community leaders with the tools to drive systemic change. His work continues to inspire and impact communities across South Carolina and beyond.