In the realm of urban regeneration, this paper analyses the key role of institutionalized self-organization within entrepreneurial governance frameworks, arguing how organized community groups can influence urban policy through engagement in policy networks. Focusing on the transformation initiative in Istanbul's Derbent informal neighbourhood (gecekondu), where community-driven innovation emerged in the face of state-led urban development, this research elucidates the ways local collectives navigate and transform governance structures. The study presents three main lessons with broader implications for understanding urban governance dynamics globally: (1) the capacity of self-organized entities to re-politicize local networks and impact urban governance, even in authoritarian contexts; (2) the transformative power of these initiatives in facilitating a transition from entrepreneurial strategies to responsive governance tactics, adapting to the needs and inputs of local stakeholders; (3) the enrolment of self-organized groups in policy networks, highlighting the importance of collective platforms that bridge the gap between citizens and policymakers. This investigation into local self-governance strategies demonstrates the tangible impact of localized efforts in catalysing change in spatial governance, challenging traditional models. While rooted in a unique socio-political landscape, the findings transcend the specific context of Derbent, encouraging further investigation into similar urban dynamics worldwide. The research calls for a re-evaluation of entrepreneurial governance models to better accommodate and leverage grassroots participation and invites further comparative research on the applicability of these insights beyond the studied context.
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