The American Section of the Société was founded in 1918, a few months after the founding of the parent French organization. It was formed through the efforts of an American chemist, Jerome Alexander, and the Section's first president, Leo H. Baekeland.
  Similarly to the French organization, the original mission of the American Section of the Société was "to aid and encourage the utilization of scientific and engineering developments by the industry, and promotion of chemistry in public opinion, especially among the young and in the education system." Today, the Section is involved in a number of non-profit activities: sponsoring the leading monthly luncheon speaker program at which prominent CEO´s, government leaders and scientists share their views on important industry developments; granting fellowships and scholarships to students pursuing the study of chemistry; honoring individuals who have contributed significantly to the industry; and providing a variety of other services to individuals and companies in the industry.

  The Société de Chimie Industrielle is a French organization headquartered in Paris. Since its founding in 1917, it has become truly a global organization in both outlook and operations. The Société has founded the European federations of Chemical Engineering, Corrosion and Biotechnology, and takes a leadership role in their activities. Furthermore, the Société, together with the Society of Chemical Industry of London, established the International Union of Pure and Applied Chemistry (IUPAC) in 1920. IUPAC has since become a major focal point for chemical societies throughout the world.
  The Société´s publications, International Symposia, and World Chemical Forums provide effective forums to support its mission directly. In addition, these forums offer the opportunity and the environment to build and foster better mutual understanding among worldwide leaders in science, engineering, industry, government and education.