I think its a shame you have such a high minimum - I would have like to put in my little half a bitcoin or something but there is no way I can afford $1000+. Can't say I'm very keen on the blind auction method either. But I wish you the best of luck and hope to one day be a customer even if I can't be a backer. In the meantime I've just published an article about this on my news blog:
http://cryptonewsday.com/nushares-votes-for-auction-to-fund-decentralized-cryptocurrency-exchange/Suggestions or corrections (or likes and shares

) welcomed!
I totally share your view that the auction method keeps small investors a little bit out of the game. At the same time we have to have in mind that point of view of the developers and why they have chosen those thresholds.
I would therefore be willing to support you and help you place your bid as I will take part in the auction. Thank you very much for that article.
For all those skeptical about the trustworthiness of Jordan Lee and the team: I am also very skeptical when it comes to crypto and fundraising and all these things. Nevertheless, one has to admit that Jordan Lee has a clean slate with regard to his achievements in cryptocurrency. Taking into account that he pulled off huge projects where he could have scammed people for quite some money, I am feeling comfortable right now with supporting the development of that exchange.