AUTEX stands for the Association of Universities for Textiles. It creates a worldwide network of textile universities and was founded in 1994. Over the years, a strong enlargement took place, and the Association currently has 45 members from 32 countries. The mission of AUTEX as a non-profit association is to facilitate cooperation in high-level textile education and research by actions like:

• Promote the activities and achievements of the member universities on a global stage.
• Facilitate cooperation in the development and delivery of high-level taught courses and teaching materials amongst member universities.
• Encourage student and staff mobility and networking amongst member universities and invited partners.
• Facilitate the growth of active research partnerships amongst universities and invited partners.
• Organise conferences to disseminate cutting-edge issues to textile professionals and students.
• Disseminate the results of research work in textile and clothing science, technology and design through the publication of a journal on a regular basis.
• Engage with other organisations and agencies concerned with textiles and clothing.
• Offer special academic courses and training in textile related topics.
• Apply for public-funded projects.