Marvin OnumonuCommunities Minister Gordon Lyons welcomed the early success of the JobStart programme, which launched last month.
So far, 385 employers have applied, creating 1,060 new job opportunities.
The department has approved 125 JobStart employer applications to date.
At present, 102 employers are offering 239 positions live on the department’s JobApplyNI website.
Lyons said: “I am delighted JobStart has been so successful in these early days.
“It is the biggest jobs programme of its kind and is already well on its way to reaching more people and employers than before.
“I have no doubt we will continue to see a high volume of applications from employers and participants as we continue to build upon the success of previous JobStart programmes recently delivered by the Department.”
The Northern Cricket Union has previously taken part in the scheme and has re-joined for the latest round.
Callum Atkinson, chief executive of the Northern Cricket Union, said: “The Northern Cricket Union has been proud to work in partnership with the JobStart Scheme over recent years, and we’ve seen first-hand the positive impact it can have on people and on our organisation.
“One of our recent employees began his career with us through the scheme, going on to progress through several roles in our organisation, developing both professionally and personally over a 3 year period, before moving on to pursue his passion for PE teaching.
“His journey is a great example of how JobStart can inspire people to discover their area of interest and take the next step in their careers.”
Atkinson added: “The scheme has been a great success for us as an employer too, bringing energy and enthusiasm into our organisation.
“We’re eager to continue working with JobStart to provide more people with the opportunity to gain employment, develop their skills and discover their own passions along the way.”
