springboard

/ˈsprɪŋˌbɔːrd/
verb
  1. To launch or propel forward, especially as if from a springboard.
    • His early training springboarded him to the top of his sport.
    • The new policy springboarded innovation across the industry.
    • The success of the product springboarded the company into international markets.
noun
  1. A flexible board used to jump from, especially into a swimming pool or for gymnastics.
    • She bounced on the springboard and dove gracefully into the pool.
    • The gymnast used the springboard to launch herself onto the balance beam.
    • Kids lined up to jump off the springboard at the community pool.
  2. Something that provides a starting point or opportunity for further progress or development.
    • The small grant acted as a springboard for the startup's growth.
    • Her first novel served as a springboard for a series of bestselling books.
    • The internship was a springboard to a successful career in journalism.