The Maryland Stem Cell Research Fund (MSCRF) is a well-established US state fund aimed specifically at driving the development of new medical strategies for the prevention, diagnosis, treatment and cure of human diseases, injuries, and conditions through human stem cells. Here, we discuss the MSCRF’s specific activities and goals with Executive Director, Dr Amrithar Jaishankar, and get her take on how best to develop collaborative research programs and promote commercialization of stem cell technologies.