The phrase "strong footing" means having a stable or secure position, either literally or figuratively. It can refer to having a solid base or foundation for support, whether physically or in terms of a situation or decision. Full definition
This is a great resource and opportunity to set your marriage on strong footing before you even walk down the aisle. (healinghurtinghearts.com)
In any case, we can see that none of the previous models in fact has offered strong footing for resistance to the new model of market - driven education. (religion-online.org)
Given this relatively small number of already neutered and vaccinated cats, the negotiations started on a very strong footing. (animalalliancenyc.org)