The verb instigate means to cause an event or situation to happen by making a set of actions or a formal process to begin.
Synonyms are abet, bring about, plot, or prompt.
The word origins from Latin (1540) instigatus, past participle of instigare meaning “to urge on, incite”.
Avoid things that cause enough stress in your cat to instigate fur loss.
The new members of the team instigate a celebration for us.
Instigate marriage proceedings based upon his behavior.