Unless you’re Elon Musk reading this, don’t try to launch two startups at the same time. It’s a way to divide focus, stretch resources, and dilute impact. Growing one venture is challenging enough; doubling that workload can jeopardize both.

-Establish a centralized pool of shared resources (e.g., engineers, designers, marketing experts). -Develop a matrix to prioritize resource allocation based on strategic importance, urgency, and potential impact. -Be prepared to adjust resource allocation as priorities shift or unexpected challenges arise. -Conduct frequent meetings with key stakeholders from both companies to discuss resource needs and potential conflicts. - Utilize tools like Asana, Trello, or Jira to track progress, share updates, and coordinate efforts. -Organize regular meetings to discuss and resolve resource conflicts collaboratively.

Align the goals and objectives of the portfolio companies, communicate it properly and work towards the shared goals and objectives as it helps to minimize conflicts over shared resources. Moreover, develop detailed plans for how resources will be allocated and used.

To navigate conflicts between two portfolio companies sharing resources, I start by establishing clear, equitable resource allocation based on each company’s strategic priorities. I facilitate open discussions with both teams to understand their needs and any potential overlaps, ensuring transparency and mutual respect. By setting up structured processes for resource requests, usage tracking, and conflict resolution, I prevent misunderstandings. Regular reviews help adjust allocations as priorities shift, and I maintain consistent communication to align both companies on shared goals and foster a collaborative approach to resource-sharing.

Put them on an allowance. Certain things consume a certain number of shared services “credits”. This forces them to prioritize what has otherwise been “free”. That will stop some of the fighting.