earmark

A mark or deformation of the ear of an animal, intended to indicate ownership.

The designation of specific projects in appropriations of funding for general programs.

A mark for identification; a distinguishing mark.

To mark (as of sheep) by slitting the ear.

(by extension) To specify or set aside for a particular purpose, to allocate.

“You can donate to the organization as a whole, or you can earmark your contribution for a particular project.”