Formal:
* Commence: To begin, especially in a formal or official way.
* Initiate: To begin or cause something to begin.
* Inaugurate: To begin or start officially.
* Embark: To begin a journey or venture.
* Launch: To start something, especially a new project or product.
Informal:
* Kick off: To start or begin something, especially a project or event.
* Get going: To begin or start doing something.
* Get underway: To begin or start moving.
* Set off: To start a journey or activity.
* Take off: To begin a journey or activity with great speed or enthusiasm.
Other:
* Originate: To begin or come into existence.
* Emerge: To appear or come into view.
* Arise: To appear or come into existence.
* Spawn: To produce or give rise to.
The best word to use will depend on the specific context and the desired tone.