foot·hold 
/ˈfʊtˌhoʊld/ noun
plural foot·holds /ˈfʊtˌhoʊld/ noun [count] 1 : a place where your foot may be placed when you are climbing a cliff, a mountain, etc. — compare toehold 1 2 : a position that makes it possible to begin an activity or effort
▪ The army gained a foothold on the island. ▪ The company has secured a foothold in the market.
▪ The army gained a foothold on the island. ▪ The company has secured a foothold in the market.
