The year 2019 marked a turning point in the global business landscape, as digital transformation, lifestyle shifts, and emerging technologies opened the door for high-return ventures. For aspiring entrepreneurs and small business owners, identifying the most profitable business to start in 2019 wasn’t just about chasing trends—it was about solving real-world problems with scalable, innovative solutions. Here’s a look back at the top ventures that thrived in 2019 and continue to inspire profitable startups even today.

Profitable Businesses to Start in 2019: Opportunities That Delivered Massive Returns

1. E-Commerce Private Label Brands

Selling private label products through platforms like Amazon and Shopify was one of the most profitable businesses to start in 2019. Entrepreneurs sourced products from global suppliers and rebranded them with:

• Unique packaging

• Improved quality or features

• Focused niche appeal

Examples included fitness gear, pet products, baby care items, and beauty tools. Profit margins ranged from 30%–60%, especially for those who mastered digital advertising and supply chain optimization.

2. Dropshipping Stores

The dropshipping model—selling products without holding inventory—boomed in 2019. Paired with Facebook Ads and Shopify, many startups generated massive revenues with low upfront investment.

Top-performing niches included:

• Tech gadgets

• Skincare tools

• Home fitness products

• LED lights and phone accessories

While the business required strong marketing, it was ideal for entrepreneurs wanting fast cash flow and a global reach.

3. Digital Marketing Agencies

With companies racing to get online visibility, launching a digital marketing agency was one of the most profitable business ideas in 2019. Agencies offered:

• SEO services

• Google Ads management

• Social media content and strategy

• Branding and design

High client retainers and recurring contracts made this model attractive, especially for freelancers and marketers who bundled their services into scalable packages.

4. Mobile App-Based Services

2019 was the golden year for apps that solved daily challenges. Entrepreneurs who built mobile-first platforms in the following areas thrived:

• On-demand home cleaning or repair

• Hyperlocal delivery apps

• Fitness or meditation apps

• Language learning tools

With monetization through freemium models, subscriptions, or ads, app startups became high-profit ventures, especially in developing economies with rising smartphone penetration.

5. Health and Fitness Coaching

As consumers embraced wellness lifestyles, launching a health or fitness coaching business proved highly lucrative in 2019. Professionals offered:

• Virtual fitness sessions

• Customized diet and workout plans

• Hormonal balance coaching

• Group accountability programs

Using Instagram, YouTube, and online communities, coaches scaled their offerings with digital products and memberships, generating recurring revenue.

6. Online Education and Course Platforms

With growing demand for upskilling, 2019 saw a boom in online course creation. Platforms like Udemy, Teachable, and Thinkific enabled solopreneurs to build digital academies in niches like:

• Coding

• Digital marketing

• Graphic design

• Parenting and homeschooling

Low overhead, passive income, and global reach made it one of the most profitable businesses for teachers, coaches, and professionals.

7. Handmade and Artisanal Products

For those with creative skills, 2019 was a breakout year for handmade goods businesses. Platforms like Etsy and Instagram helped artists and craftspersons sell:

• Jewelry

• Scented candles and soaps

• Leather goods

• Artwork and prints

Eco-conscious consumers supported local and handmade brands, resulting in strong profit margins for niche sellers with compelling brand stories.

8. Subscription Box Services

Consumers in 2019 loved personalized, convenient, and curated products. Entrepreneurs capitalized by launching subscription box services in categories such as:

• Gourmet snacks

• Men’s grooming kits

• Book and wine pairings

• Kids’ DIY activity kits

Monthly recurring revenue and loyal customers made this business model both profitable and scalable.

9. Co-Working and Shared Office Spaces

The freelance revolution and remote work trends led to a boom in co-working spaces. Entrepreneurs converted commercial spaces into vibrant hubs offering:

• Flexible workstations

• High-speed internet and coffee

• Networking events

With predictable rent revenue and high occupancy rates in urban areas, these spaces became cash-generating assets for their owners.

10. Influencer and Affiliate Marketing

One of the most underestimated yet most profitable businesses to start in 2019 was becoming a content creator or affiliate marketer. Influencers earned from:

• Brand sponsorships

• Affiliate commissions (Amazon Associates, etc.)

• Paid content and merch

• YouTube AdSense and Patreon support

With low startup costs and high-income potential, this business model turned many creators into digital entrepreneurs.

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Why These Businesses Were So Profitable in 2019

Several key factors made these ventures especially lucrative:

• Low upfront investment with digital scalability

• Access to global markets through the internet

• Tools for automation, analytics, and eCommerce

• Rising consumer trends toward health, convenience, and personalization

• Minimal need for physical infrastructure

Entrepreneurs who leveraged these dynamics, built strong brands, and understood digital acquisition channels saw rapid growth and strong ROI.

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Lessons from 2019’s Most Profitable Startups

Looking back at the most profitable businesses to start in 2019, here are core takeaways that remain valid today:

• Niche is king: Focused markets outperform broad generic categories.

• Solve real problems: The most successful businesses addressed urgent needs.

• Digital-first is essential: Online presence, sales, and automation are foundational.

• Lean and agile wins: Start small, scale fast, and adapt to feedback.

• Recurring revenue is gold: Subscriptions, retainers, and memberships build stability.

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Conclusion

If you’re seeking inspiration from past trends, these most profitable businesses to start in 2019 offer a clear blueprint. Whether you’re starting from scratch or pivoting an existing idea, the core principles of value creation, lean execution, and customer focus remain timeless. Learn from what worked, adapt it to the present landscape, and build your own success story.

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