S4C is a public service commissioning broadcaster. It commissions the majority of its programmes from independent production companies in Wales. ITV Cymru Wales is also commissioned to produce programmes. BBC Cymru Wales provides around 10 hours of programming per week for S4C, including the news and daily soap Pobol y Cwm, funded out of the licence fee.

Since its launch in 1982, S4C has worked closely with the independent production companies in Wales. A list of independent production companies can be found here. Many of the companies are represented by trade association TAC [Teledwyr Annibynnol Cymru - Wales' Independent Television Producers]. S4C consults with TAC and the companies on matters relating to the television industry.

S4C operates a continuous development and commissioning process overseen by the Commissioning Directorate. This is a flexible system which enables us to be responsive to audience needs and scheduling requirements. Ideas submitted will be given a prompt response in order to assist business planning. S4C is open to ideas from all producers who are able to meet S4C's commissioning criteria. More information is available on S4C's production website.

BBC Cymru Wales provides S4C with around ten hours per week of Welsh language programming, including the news and daily soap Pobol y Cwm, funded out of the licence fee.