Mohawk Valley Edge is at it again. Next week, judges will pick the winner of the business plan competition. That person or group will receive $10,000 cash along with $10,000 in professional services to start their operations right here in the Mohawk Valley.

The contest was open to individuals who live or attend college in Oneida or Herkimer Counties, and to companies less than two years old.

We caught up with one of the four finalists - "bounce paving".

"New York State alone produces 28 million waste tires just in piles," said Anthony Valeriano of Bounce Paving.

Kelly and Anthony Valeriano have big plans for those piles - manufacture and install rubber sidewalks in the community.

"They're safer, they're softer than concrete," Valeriano said. "It's all environmental here. That's the idea here - the green part."

Anthony is no stranger to the paving industry. As he pours black top with another company, the wheels are turning in his head.

"I think it's a great idea," he said. "Now is the time for this whole environmentally conscience efforts. We all have responsibilities. It even cuts down on fuel which is the key. Carbon is a huge issue."

His uncle, out west, came up with the initial idea...and it was just a matter of months for it to evolve.

"We would like to target the municipalities for a nice rubber soft sidewalk," he said. "Nursing homes, education...schools and such kids running all over. No more skinned knees no more broken bones."

The walks are non-toxic, flame resistant, and the tiles absorb sound. The Utica-based company hopes to eventually extend its services statewide.

"It is a good hook," he said. "Nothing in the area like it here. This is all from the ground up. there is not one rubber sidewalk in the area. Not one brick paver."