The Technological Institute for Children’s Products and Leisure AIJU, based in Ibi, reported in 2021 a robust investment of more than 12 million euros in a broad R&D program. The year saw the involvement of 37 partner entities, including companies, universities, and research centers, all collaborating to advance child safety, the application of information and communication technologies, and sustainability or circular economy practices.
Supported by agencies such as IVACE and the Generalitat Valenciana’s Ministry of Sustainable Economy, Productive Sectors, Trade and Labor, AIJU remained focused on education and empowerment for seniors and active aging during the fiscal year. The agenda centered on sparking innovation in Valencian Community small and medium-sized manufacturers and promoting environmental education tools, including game-based learning approaches.
Following the release of the 2021 annual report, AIJU’s president Pablo Cañizares highlighted the breadth of projects completed that year, ranging from new materials and bioplastics to sustainable materials and the modernization of AIJU’s facilities. The institution underscored its growing technical capability in product safety and the strategic link between innovation and a strong business ecosystem that can translate research into practical benefits for companies.
Company Services
On the services front, AIJU delivered 39,990 technological engagements to 1,644 client organizations. The breakdown shows a majority of activities in chemical analyses (23,243), physical testing (13,363), and materials and process services (2,851), with an additional set focused on organizational, product management, and sustainable development services (177).
Another key aspect of the 2021 report is the strengthening of the regional business fabric. AIJU conducted 210 targeted training actions, accumulating over 4,316 hours of instruction and engaging more than 1,500 participants, primarily technicians and skilled workers. The year closed with total revenue reaching 8.5 million euros, driven mainly by R&D incentives and R&D services provided to companies.
Featured Projects
Among the highlights, the Circular Industry CV initiative aimed to design and validate new circular economy models by reusing multi-component waste in footwear, textile, and toy sectors. A demonstrator was built to address classification, conversion, and application of materials from treated waste. This pilot plant, the first of its kind in Spain and Europe, was developed by AIJU in collaboration with INESCOP and AITEX technology centers. Additional initiatives include the BioFase project, which researches functional biomaterials for toys, packaging, and home goods, and a European survey under Safevalor to assess children’s products in the market.
Also notable is the SmartTUR+ECO project, which seeks to create an artificial intelligence and virtual reality platform for personalized and sustainable tourism experiences.
Environmental Commitment and Sustainability
AIJU has enhanced its environmental performance under the UNE-EN ISO 14001:2015 standard and continues advising partner companies on optimizing resource use, pursuing energy self-sufficiency, and reducing environmental hazards through photovoltaic energy generation. The institute further supports the industrial base and environmental awareness via European R&D projects, and other initiatives related to the Circular Economy and the development of more sustainable materials.
Equal Opportunities and Work-Life Balance
The organization advanced its third Equality Plan for 2021–2025, approved by the Generalitat Valenciana, featuring measures to promote gender equality across employment entry, reconciliation, job classification, career development, remuneration, occupational health, and inclusive communication. A work-life balance program provides flexible working arrangements and related benefits. The AIJU team comprises 117 professionals, including 13 doctors (31% male, 69% female), 46 engineers and graduates (55% male, 46% female), 14 graduates (65% male, 35% female), 31 technical assistants (26% male, 74% female), and 13 residents (25% male, 75% female). [Source: AIJU Annual Report 2021]”