stepping-stoneprogram
nounUK /ˈstɛpɪŋ stəʊn ˈprəʊɡræm/
US /ˈstɛpɪŋ stoʊn ˈproʊɡræm/
A stepping-stone program is a small first program that helps you get ready for a bigger one.
The summer camp is a stepping-stone program that prepares kids for the full-year school.
OTHER MEANINGS
2. A training course that helps people move from one level of study or work to the next.
The college offers a stepping-stone program for students who need extra math before university.
3. A short trial program used to test whether a larger project should go ahead.
The city launched a stepping-stone program with ten bikes before buying a full fleet.
4. An early-stage funding or support scheme that leads to a larger one.
The grant acts as a stepping-stone program for small businesses seeking bigger loans.