This dataset contains the responses to an internal consultation carried out within the Circular Cities and Regions Initiative (CCRI) in the framework of Task 2.1 (Scoping and needs assessment) of the CCRI Communities of Practice project. A tailored EU Survey was addressed to CCRI Pilot Companions (advisors supporting CCRI Pilots) and to CCRI Thematic Working Group (TWG) leaders. Respondents rated a set of general and target-specific needs and priorities, ranked their top circular economy topics, and commented on the relevance and potential impact of twelve candidate topics for the future CCRI Communities of Practice. Together with the focus group discussions held with cities and regions, this consultation informed the prioritisation and shaping of the first CCRI Communities of Practice. Funded by the European Union. Programme: Horizon Europe. Action: CCRI Communities of Practice (Coordination and Support Action). Grant agreement no.: 101135302