Compact Membrane Systems, Inc. (CMS), owned by Erica Nemser, is a trailblazing company with a remarkable 30-year legacy. CMS has not only played a pivotal role in revolutionizing the way we decarbonize hard-to-abate sectors but has also made significant strides in reducing greenhouse gas emissions. With the invaluable support of the Delaware Small Business Development Center (SBDC), CMS has achieved remarkable success, making waves in the world of sustainable technology.

The Vision Behind CMS

CMS has always had a clear mission: to develop solutions that make it feasible and affordable to remove gigatons of cumulative CO2 from the atmosphere. Their approach is practical, immediate, and cost-effective, ensuring a low-risk path toward decarbonization. Using advanced membrane technology, CMS initially introduced bolt-on applications in petrochemical plants. This technology, developed and perfected in their 10,000 sqft lab in Wilmington, Delaware, significantly reduces energy usage and offers a smaller environmental footprint compared to existing separation technologies.

What sets CMS apart is its commitment to addressing the environmental challenges in a way that aligns with economic viability. Their solutions extend to various point source carbon capture applications, including industries like steel, cement, and chemicals, making it possible to create essential materials while preserving the planet.

Triumphs and Milestones

CMS has achieved several noteworthy milestones. Recently, they raised an oversubscribed Series A funding round, securing an impressive $16.5 million in investment. This accomplishment reflects the confidence of industry leaders in CMS’s innovative solutions and their potential to revolutionize the field of carbon capture. The funding round was led by Pangaea Ventures and featured prominent names like GC Ventures, Solvay Ventures, Chevron Technology Ventures, and Technip Energies. To learn more about this exciting development, visit their website here.

SBDC Involvement

Behind every thriving business, there often stands a supportive ecosystem. For CMS, the Delaware Small Business Development Center (SBDC) has played a vital role in their journey. Mike Bowman, the SBDC State Director and President of the Delaware Technology Park, has been instrumental in guiding CMS in several critical areas.

The SBDC assisted CMS in fundraising, helping them secure the necessary resources to bring their vision to life. This support was crucial in propelling CMS to the forefront of sustainable technology.

The SBDC also helped CMS navigate the local business ecosystem, opening doors to valuable opportunities that might have otherwise remained hidden. They also provided invaluable assistance when CMS was relocating their facilities, ensuring a smooth transition during a pivotal phase of their growth.

In Erica Nemser’s own words, “The SBDC has been instrumental in helping us with fundraising and navigating the Delaware ecosystem.” This quote beautifully encapsulates the profound impact that the SBDC has had on CMS’s success story. 

Compact Membrane Systems, Inc.’s journey is a testament to the power of innovation and dedicated support. As they continue to lead the charge in decarbonization, CMS inspires businesses worldwide, proving that with the right vision and partners, we can create a sustainable future for generations to come.

As we celebrate their recent achievements, it’s clear that CMS, under Erica Nemser’s leadership and with the guidance of SBDC, is on a path toward a greener, more sustainable future.