The International Stem Cell Banking Initiative (ISCBI) aims to create a global network of stem cell banks to facilitate best practice in stem cell research and clinical cell delivery, primary objectives of national and local governments worldwide and stem cell organizations such the International Stem Cell Forum and the International Society of Stem Cell Research. This paper is a brief overview of ISCBI, its primary activities, potential network participants, and the challenges for harmonizing stem cell banking on a global level.