The Sperm Bank of California
Description
Founded in 1982 and based in Berkeley, The Sperm Bank of California (TSBC) is the first and only nonprofit sperm bank in the United States. TSBC is widely recognized as a pioneer in ethical donor services, with a strong commitment to social justice, diversity, and supporting all family types, including LGBTQ+ parents and single parents by choice. TSBC claims to have introduced the world’s first Open Identity (ID Release) program in 1983 and continues to lead in transparency and donor–offspring connections. Over the years, the bank has helped thousands of families realize their dream of parenthood while conducting groundbreaking research on donor-conceived individuals and families. TSBC’s mission and vision are to increase access to safe and ethical donor conception while promoting diversity, inclusion, and openness. The organization seeks to empower families by combining rigorous medical standards with social responsibility. While serving primarily U.S. clients, TSBC also coordinates international shipping where local regulations allow, working closely with recipient clinics.
Donor types and services
All donors are ID-Release donors. Profiles include childhood and adult photos, family medical history, personal essays, staff impressions, and in some cases, audio interviews. TSBC provides donor sperm in IUI and ICI vials with different motility options, suitable for both home insemination (where legally permitted) and clinical treatments such as IUI and IVF.
Genetic test panel
All donors are screened for: Cystic Fibrosis carrier status, Spinal Muscular Atrophy (SMA), Hemoglobinopathies (including Thalassemia and Sickle Cell disease), Fragile X Syndrome (since June 2021 all new donors are tested).
Origin and locations
Headquarters: Berkeley, California, USA.
Additional Information
TSBC describes itself as a “nonprofit organization dedicated to providing ethical family building options”. It holds IRS status as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit corporation. It was originally founded as a project of the Oakland Feminist Women’s Health Center and then incorporated as an independent nonprofit in 1988.