break new ground

verb2

1. •
   To begin excavating and levelling earth for a new building, or, originally, for cultivation.
2. •
   To initiate a new venture, especially something never before attempted; to advance or innovate.

   • One of the Birmingham R.C.W. diesel multiple-units on the Calder Valley service broke new ground on August 12 when it was enployed for a works excursion from Halifax to Windermere, [...]. — 1962